Originally posted on The Squirrel Review.
If the aim of self-portraiture is defined as the production of a painting displaying perfect likeness to one’s physical self, Rembrandt van Rijn was a master of this medium for much of his artistic life. However, when one defines the aim of a self-portrait more subtly, that of providing an honest window into the deep and personal character of an artist, Rembrandt only began to succeed towards the end of his life. This truth is exemplified in what many consider to be one of the artists greatest masterpieces, Self-Portrait with Two Circles.
In his earlier self-portraits, Rembrandt depicts himself as handsome, successful, and fashionable – indeed, far more like a gentleman than an artist. From his clothing to his posture, the artist reflected upon the glamorous…
via Self-Portrait with Two Circles by Rembrandt (1659-1660) | The Squirrel Review.
First Night Design 
Reblogged this on Windows into History (Reblogging and Links) and commented:
Suggested reading – a useful blog for those who are interested in the history of art. Reblogged on Windows into History.
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Thank you so much for the reblog, Roger.
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Wonderful insight into an amazing artist!
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Isn’t it just. My art education is not what it should be so I love reading The Squirrel Review.
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Think I should do the same! 🙂
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Good morning, Sarah….will re blog this…I am such a lover of Rembrandt’s work and especially his self portraits. This painting is sublime.
It shows an artist who achieved the ultimate in technical prowess, and one who could tap into the intangible….giving us a full on look at who the man really was.
Have a lovely weekend. Janet…..
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You said it! Much thanks for the reblog. 🙂
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You are most welcome:)x
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Reblogged this on My Life as an Artist (2) and commented:
A master of the sublime.
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Hi, Sarah. I’m back and I’m trying to catch up on my blog reading. I love this self-portrait. Hope you’re well. Lucy
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I’ve been thinking of you, Lucy, as my 4-year old hip has been making ominous clicking noises! Have a lovely weekend. 🙂
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Hey everyone,
amazing to see such feedback on our post!
However, these do take some time to create and we’d really appreciate it if you could leave your thoughts or even just a like on our blog. It would really help us grow, and keep on going unraveling these masterpieces.
Thank you again, Sarah, for your continued support to our little operation.
http://thesquirrelreview.com/
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It’s a joy to reblog your posts as they always cast such erudite perspectives on paintings. I’m sure my loyal followers have and will comment on your blog!
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hahah,
thank you for your kind words. 🙂
the pingback system seems a little broken, translating very little response we see on your blog back to ours.
nonetheless, it gives us great hope for the future to see interest and such positive feedback on our mini-essays through your lovely followers. 🙂
Thank you.
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Oh dear! I hope more will pop over before the day is out and throughout tomorrow.
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Reblogged this on Oyia Brown.
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I hope your hip is OK, Sarah. Thanks for the post.
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So do I, Olga, so do I! It hasn’t made that sort of clicking noise for some time. Glad you enjoyed the post.
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One of my favorite artists Sarah – love his self-portraits. A great master.
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Happy to oblige, Mary!
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I was not familiar with this portrait. Thanks for the image and the revelation.
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A pleasure, Catherine. Thank you dropping in.
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If you happen to be in London,you can see this painting at Kenwood House
https://enoughofthistomfoolery.wordpress.com/2015/01/14/the-earl-of-iveagh-and-kenwood-house-the-ascendancy-of-the-new-aristocracy-over-the-old/
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How did I miss this comment? Apologies. Thank you for the info.
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You’re welcome.
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While in St. Petersburg we visited the Hermitage which was extraordinary. In one of the rooms we got to see some of the masters work, it’s fantastic.
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I am green with envy!
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In Russia we are “Red” with envy. )))
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How interesting!
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