Zelfportret after 1674

Jean Lepautre made this self-portrait print. It's visually dominated by its ornate framing, where an oval portrait of the artist is encircled by cherubs and set against scenes of classical figures. The composition is structured with a formal symmetry, typical of the period, yet animated by the dynamic poses of the cherubs. Lepautre employs a semiotic system here, where cherubs and classical figures are not merely decorative but signal erudition. These elements establish a dialogue between the artist's self-image and historical artistic ideals, reflecting the period's fascination with classical forms and its use in legitimizing contemporary art. The print can be interpreted through a structuralist lens, where the artist’s self-representation is mediated through established visual codes and cultural narratives. Ultimately, the piece’s formal qualities emphasize the artist's role as a cultured figure, deeply embedded within a historical and intellectual tradition. The artwork is not just an aesthetic statement but also a contribution to a broader discourse on the artist's identity and role in society.