Self-Portrait with an Eyeshade Jean Baptiste Siméon Chardin (1699-1779)

In this painting, Self-Portrait with an Eyeshade, the artist presents a close-up, bust-length portrait of themselves. They are wearing a hat with a wide brim, adorned with a ribbon and bow. Round spectacles rest on their nose, and a light-colored scarf or cravat is loosely tied around their neck. The overall impression is one of an individual thoughtfully engaged, their gaze directed outwards, perhaps towards the viewer or the canvas.

The subtexts in this self-portrait can be interpreted in several ways:

• Identity and Self-Perception: As a self-portrait, the painting is fundamentally about the artists sense of self. The choice to depict themselves in this manner – with the hat and eyeshade, the attire, and the direct gaze – reveals how they wish to be seen. It could be an assertion of their artistic identity, a statement about their role as an observer, or a reflection of their personality.
• The Artists Gaze and Observation: The eyeshade, while unusual, might symbolize a focus on vision and perception. It could suggest the artists keen observational skills, their ability to discern details, or perhaps even a slight detachment or shield from the world as they engage in the act of creation. It implies a deliberate act of seeing.
• Social Persona or Character: The attire, particularly the hat and scarf, suggests a certain social presentation. It might be an attempt to project a particular image – perhaps one of sophistication, intellectualism, or even a touch of eccentricity. The clothing can act as a costume, allowing the artist to inhabit a specific role or persona for the portrait.
• Vulnerability and Strength: While the self-portrait is a deliberate presentation, the direct gaze can also be seen as an act of vulnerability, exposing oneself to the viewers judgment. However, the composed demeanor and the chosen attire can also convey strength and self-assurance.
• The Act of Artistic Creation: The self-portrait, by its nature, is a commentary on the artists process. The artist is not only the subject but also the creator, and this duality is inherent in the work, hinting at the intimate relationship between the artist and their art.