Self-Portrait 1782 - 1785

Cornelius Høyer painted this self-portrait, an oil on copper, during an era defined by rigid social structures and emerging artistic self-awareness. Høyer, working in the late 18th century, presents himself with a composed demeanor, embodying the era’s emphasis on restraint and decorum. Yet, within the confines of societal expectations, we can still observe a negotiation of identity. The miniature format, often used for intimate keepsakes, suggests a personal reflection, a private declaration of selfhood. While his attire and powdered wig align with aristocratic norms, there is a sense of individual presence in his gaze. Consider the power dynamics at play: Høyer, as an artist, both adheres to and subtly subverts the conventions of portraiture. This miniature becomes a space where societal expectations and personal expression intersect, inviting us to contemplate the complexities of identity in a world undergoing profound transformation.