Portrait of the artist holding an academic drawing Luis Eugenio Meléndez (1716-1780)

The composition presents a young man in what appears to be a self-portrait. He is positioned centrally within the frame, facing directly toward the viewer with a gaze that conveys both confidence and a certain introspection. The dark background serves to isolate him, drawing attention to his figure and the object he holds.
He wears a dark velvet jacket over a white shirt, fastened loosely at the neck with a simple tie. The fabric’s sheen is rendered with careful attention to light and shadow, suggesting an awareness of texture and material quality. His hair is disheveled, hinting at a creative temperament or perhaps a disregard for conventional formality. He holds a drawing in his left hand, while his right hand rests on the lower edge of the paper, providing support.
The drawing itself depicts a classical figure – a male nude – executed in a precise and detailed style characteristic of academic training. The subject is positioned at an angle, revealing musculature and anatomical detail. This juxtaposition – the artist’s own portrait alongside his rendering of a traditional subject – suggests a commentary on artistic practice and the relationship between creator and creation.
The presence of the drawing implies not only skill but also adherence to established artistic traditions. The choice of a classical nude further reinforces this connection, referencing centuries of art historical precedent. However, the artist’s direct gaze and somewhat unconventional attire introduce an element of modernity or personal expression that subtly challenges the formality inherent in academic practice.
The overall effect is one of considered self-representation – a young artist asserting his identity within a defined artistic lineage while simultaneously hinting at a desire to forge his own path. The painting speaks to themes of ambition, skill, and the complex interplay between tradition and innovation in the realm of art.