Self-Portrait (1493) by Albrecht Durer

The “Self-Portrait” by Albrecht Dürer, created in 1493, is an exquisite example of the Northern Renaissance art movement. The work is executed in oil on parchment applied to canvas, showcasing the artist’s mastery of the medium. This piece is categorized as a self-portrait and is part of the collection at the Louvre Museum in Paris, France.

In this painting, Albrecht Dürer presents himself with a direct gaze that engages the viewer. His long, curly hair falls gently around his shoulders, and he wears a red cap adorned with a tassel, indicative of the fashion of the time. The artist’s clothing is rendered with meticulous detail, featuring a layered garment with intricate folds and a subdued color palette accented by a red trim. He also holds a small, delicate plant, emphasizing his connection with nature and perhaps symbolizing a personal or artistic growth. Dürer’s use of light and shadow gives the portrait a sense of three-dimensionality, and the lifelike representation of his features speaks to his skill as a portraitist. The date “1493” prominently inscribed alongside his representation suggests a sense of pride and accomplishment at that moment in his career.