Zelfportret

About this artwork

Purchased with the support of the F.G. Waller-Fonds

Art Historical Context

**Zelfportret by Cornelis van den Berg (1750-1774)** Nestled in a petite frame measuring just 133 mm high by 110 mm wide, *Zelfportret* (Dutch for "Self-Portrait") captures the introspective gaze of 18th-century Dutch artist Cornelis van den Berg. Created sometime between 1750 and 1774, this intimate work exemplifies the tradition of self-portraiture in the Netherlands, where artists often turned the lens inward to showcase their skill and personality. Van den Berg, active during a transitional period after the Dutch Golden Age, likely rendered this piece with fine brushwork—highlighted simply as "brush" in records—suggesting a delicate, precise technique suited to its miniature scale. The small dimensions evoke the era's fascination with portable, personal art, akin to jewelry or keepsakes that could adorn private cabinets or be carried by travelers. Such self-portraits served not only as professional calling cards but also as meditations on identity amid the Enlightenment's emphasis on individualism. Acquired through the generous support of the F.G. Waller-Fonds, this rare gem underscores the ongoing appreciation for overlooked 18th-century Dutch masters, preserving a window into van den Berg's world for modern viewers. (178 words)