Zelfportret: B-1-1, 15 februari Possibly 1942

This is Cor van Teeseling's self-portrait, sketched in sanguine, a medium that lends the work a delicate, almost spectral quality. Notice how Teeseling has depicted himself with a scarf draped around his neck. This simple garment, seen through the ages, has been more than just protection against the cold. From ancient Roman orators to modern revolutionaries, the scarf has symbolized dignity, knowledge, and even defiance. It's a subtle yet potent emblem, charged with layers of historical meaning. Think of depictions of scholars in Renaissance paintings, their necks adorned with similar cloths, or even the way martyrs are often portrayed, their necks exposed or covered, signifying vulnerability or sacrifice. The scarf, in this context, becomes a silent narrator, whispering tales of wisdom, suffering, and resilience. It connects us to the past through the enduring power of symbols. The emotional resonance of this image lies in its quiet contemplation, inviting us to reflect on the continuous presence of history in our present lives.