Self-portrait with a Skull Possibly 1653 - 1654

This self-portrait by Cornelis Visscher, created sometime between 1653 and 1654, depicts the artist holding a skull. The artwork, now housed in the Rijksmuseum, serves as a memento mori, a reminder of mortality. Visscher, who tragically died young at the age of 30, captures a sense of contemplation and introspection, reflecting on the fleeting nature of life. The detailed rendering of the skull and the artist's melancholic gaze evoke a somber yet thought-provoking mood. This etching is a testament to Visscher's skillful use of line and shadow to create a powerful and enduring image.