Self-Portrait
Jean Etienne Liotard|Jean Etienne Liotard, ca. 1778–80
About this artwork
Jean-Etienne Liotard, the renowned Swiss artist of the 18th century captured his likeness in this striking self-portrait print around 1778–80, in a career marked by extensive travels and pastel portrait mastery. Best known for his precise draftsmanship and delicate colors—honed during years in Constantinople—Liotard turned to reproductive printmaking here, showcasing his versatility and allowing wider dissemination of his image. This work reflects the Enlightenment-era fascination with self-representation and the growing role of prints in building an artist's reputation across Europe. Crafted as a "proof before letters," this impression was pulled before any text was added, making it a collector's gem for its pristine state. Liotard masterfully combined roulette (for dotted textures), engraving (for crisp lines), and mezzotint (for velvety tones), achieving subtle modeling and rich depth rare in single-technique prints. Housed in The Metropolitan Museum of Art's Elisha Whittelsey Collection, it exemplifies sophisticated 18th-century print innovation, bridging painting and reproduction to democratize fine art. Visitors will appreciate how Liotard's keen eye transforms technical prowess into an intimate, enduring self-portrait.