Self-Portrait 1665

Gerrit Dou completed this self-portrait in oils, likely sometime in the mid-17th century. The artist shows himself at work, surrounded by the tools and trappings of his profession. Dou's mastery of oil paint is evident in the detailed rendering of textures, from the soft fur trim of his coat to the smooth pages of the open book. The work's materiality influences its appearance, giving the scene a sense of depth and realism. Oil paint allowed for blending and layering, crucial to Dou's refined style. The painting is a product of a specific social and economic context. As an artist in the Dutch Golden Age, Dou was part of a thriving market for art. His self-portrait reflects the growing importance of the individual artist and the commodification of creative labor. By presenting himself as a skilled craftsman, Dou was marketing his expertise to potential patrons. This focus on materials, making, and context challenges the distinction between fine art and craft. Dou's technical skill and attention to detail elevate the painting beyond mere portraiture, making it a testament to the value of artistic labor.