Rembrandt’s Self Portrait 1885 - 1886

James Ensor made this drawing titled Rembrandt’s Self Portrait on an unknown date. The Belgian artist's choice of subject reveals much about his artistic ambitions. Ensor was a progressive artist, deeply critical of Belgium's art institutions. To draw Rembrandt was to align himself with a great tradition of painting, while also signaling his intention to break with academic conventions. The reference to Rembrandt positions Ensor within a lineage of artistic genius, implicitly critiquing the contemporary art world's perceived failings. Further research into Ensor’s letters and essays, alongside studies of the Belgian art scene during his lifetime, will show us the many ways in which artists like Ensor challenged and redefined the role of art. This is a crucial step in understanding the complex interplay between artistic vision, social critique, and institutional power.