Zelfportret 1750 - 1774

Cornelis van den Berg created this self-portrait with pen in gray ink and brush in gray on paper during the 18th century in the Netherlands. The image presents a man, presumably the artist, gazing directly at the viewer, his likeness captured with meticulous detail. During this period, artistic production was deeply entwined with social and institutional structures. The Dutch Republic's art market thrived, yet was heavily influenced by patronage and the prevailing aesthetic preferences of the bourgeoisie. Self-portraits like this one served as a means for artists to assert their identity and skill, seeking recognition within established artistic circles. Consider the cultural significance of portraiture at this time. Beyond mere likeness, these images reflected social status and personal achievement. We can look at the archives of the Rijksmuseum, where the artwork is located, to understand how van den Berg’s work fits into the broader narrative of Dutch art history and the social conditions that shaped his artistic practice.