Zelfportret van Moses ter Borch, naar links 1661

This is Moses ter Borch’s self-portrait, sketched with pen and grey ink on a grey prepared paper. Ter Borch created this intimate self-portrait during the Dutch Golden Age, a time of tremendous economic and cultural growth in the Netherlands. Ter Borch, who died at just twenty-one, captured his likeness with sensitivity and honesty. The sketch emphasizes a youthful yet solemn face, framed by soft, flowing locks. He captures the introspective nature of the artist, inviting viewers to reflect on youth, identity, and mortality. During the 17th century, self-portraits provided artists with a means of exploring their own identities and solidifying their place in society. While Ter Borch's life was cut short, this self-portrait is a powerful testament to his artistic talent and his deep understanding of self. It reflects the broader cultural interest in individualism and self-awareness that defined the Dutch Golden Age.