Self-Portrait | Rembrandt | 1629

About the artwork:

In this early self-portrait, a 23-year-old Rembrandt presents himself in a dramatic and somewhat theatrical manner. He dons a dark beret pulled low over his brow, casting a shadow that adds to the intensity of his gaze. Around his neck, he wears a polished steel gorget—a piece of armor that, while obsolete by the 17th century, was often used in portraits to convey a sense of martial valor or timelessness. His attire is completed with a silk scarf, its soft texture contrasting with the hard sheen of the gorget. The composition is intimate, with Rembrandt's face emerging from a dark background, highlighting his features and the textures of his chosen garments.

This painting is part of the Clowes Collection at the Indianapolis Museum of Art and is considered one of Rembrandt's earliest self-portraits. It showcases his developing mastery of chiaroscuro—the interplay of light and shadow—to create depth and focus. The choice to include the gorget, despite having no military affiliation, suggests an exploration of identity and perhaps a desire to align himself with the valor associated with such imagery. This self-portrait not only reflects Rembrandt's technical skills but also his interest in character portrayal, setting the stage for the numerous self-examinations he would undertake throughout his career.