Selvportræt 1882 - 1898

This is Henry Lørup's self-portrait, an oil painting capturing the artist with stark realism. His steady, direct gaze, aimed squarely at the viewer, carries a weight of self-awareness. It's reminiscent of the "portrait historié," a concept rooted in antiquity, where the sitter embodies a historical or allegorical figure. The very act of portraying oneself holds symbolic power; we see echoes of this in countless self-portraits across time, from Rembrandt to Van Gogh, each wrestling with identity. Consider the intense gaze found in ancient Roman portrait busts, or the determined look of Renaissance scholars. This motif persists, evolving through the ages. Could it be an attempt to capture the "true" self, a desire to leave a lasting impression on the world? We find ourselves grappling with the same questions of identity and purpose.