The artwork titled “Self-portrait” was painted by Angelica Kauffman in 1785. This oil on canvas piece measures 77 x 63 cm and reflects the Rococo art movement. It is a self-portrait of the artist and is currently housed in the Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg, Russia.
In the self-portrait, Angelica Kauffman is depicted as a genteel and confident woman, engaging the viewer with a direct gaze. Her attire is of fine quality, illustrating her status and the fashion of the time. She wears a large black hat adorned with a ribbon that softly drapes around the hat’s brim, adding a touch of grace to her ensemble. Her curly hair cascades around her shoulders and frames her face, complementing her soft and gentle facial expression. The loose ruffles on her garment’s neckline and sheer fabric showcase the elegance and lightness characteristic of Rococo fashion. The neutral tones of her dress are contrasted by the warm, rosy hues of her cheeks and the gentle flush of her lips. The intimate and personal nature of a self-portrait is captured in her unguarded yet composed demeanor. The portrait captures not only the likeness but also a hint of the artist’s personality, with her poised and approachable presence suggesting both her artistic mastery and her social grace.
