Self-portrait, Rembrandt van Rijn
c. 1628
Rembrandt was only about 22 years old when he painted this striking self-portrait, already showing off his mastery of dramatic lighting. Notice how half his face is plunged into deep shadow while the other glows? He was experimenting with chiaroscuro, a technique that would become his signature. Instead of a flattering, polished look, he gives us messy curly hair and a slightly surprised expression, proving he was more interested in raw emotion than looking perfect.
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