Self Portrait as a Young Man 1775 - 1785

Baron Dominique Vivant Denon's "Self Portrait as a Young Man" (1775-1785) is a delicate graphite drawing that captures the artist's youthful countenance. The sketch, housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, exhibits a confident and assured touch, showcasing the artist's skill with light and shadow, especially in the depiction of his features. The subtle details of the young Denon's attire and hairstyle, combined with the suggestive backdrop, provide a glimpse into the artistic sensibilities of the late 18th century. This intimate portrait, while seemingly unfinished, offers a compelling glimpse into the early career of one of France's most prominent art figures, a man who later served as director of the Louvre.