Zelfportret van Hendri Dillens 1841 - 1842

This is Henri Dillens’ self-portrait, made with graphite, giving us a direct and intimate encounter with the artist. The composition is classically structured, focusing primarily on Dillens’ upper body. The artist’s gaze meets ours head-on, establishing an immediate connection, yet his composed expression suggests a careful construction of self. Dillens uses hatching and cross-hatching to define form and create tonal depth, particularly noticeable in the detailing of his face and clothing. The linear precision and controlled gradation of tone speak to the 19th-century academic tradition, emphasizing clarity and form. This aligns with the period’s broader interest in rationalism and empirical observation, evident in the detailed rendering of his features and attire. Note Dillens’ confident signature at the bottom. It’s a final assertion of identity, solidifying the artwork’s status as a self-authored statement, inviting reflection on how artists actively shape their public image.