Zelfportret 1810 - 1850

Jean Augustin Daiwaille painted this self-portrait with oil on canvas. Oil paint is interesting. It’s made by grinding pigment with oil, usually linseed. The binder gives the paint a buttery consistency, so it can be applied smoothly and blended easily. Think of the delicate gradations of light on Daiwaille’s face, or the soft sheen on his jacket. The use of oil paint also allowed the artist to build up layers of color, creating a sense of depth and volume. Consider the way the light catches the folds of his cravat. Daiwaille's skill demonstrates how this medium's inherent properties can enhance the lifelike quality of a portrait. Looking at the painting closely, you see the labor and skill involved in creating this artwork. Oil painting was a highly valued skill in the 19th century, requiring years of training. Appreciating the materiality of oil paint helps us see the expertise of the artist, and to move beyond traditional categories separating fine art and craft.