Self Portrait in Polish National Costume 1787

This is Marcello Bacciarelli’s Self-Portrait in Polish National Costume, created sometime during his tenure as a leading painter in the Polish court. Born in Rome, Bacciarelli spent many years in Poland, becoming a powerful figure in the court of King Stanisław August Poniatowski. In this self-portrait, Bacciarelli doesn’t just depict himself, but rather makes a statement about his adopted identity. He is dressed in traditional Polish attire. What does it mean for an Italian artist to represent himself in Polish costume? This act goes beyond mere portraiture; it’s a declaration of allegiance and belonging. By embracing the sartorial symbols of Polish identity, Bacciarelli intertwines his personal narrative with the cultural and political landscape of his time. Consider his gaze, his hand gesture, and the sumptuousness of the fur. These elements combine to convey a sense of authority and cultural assimilation. This portrait invites us to reflect on the complexities of identity, and the ways in which individuals negotiate their place within diverse cultural contexts.