Self-portrait in an Window

Gerard Dou was the most important representative of the Leiden fine painters.

The artist has taken a break from his work and, holding palette and brush – the symbols of his profession –, is leaning on the window-sill, turning a penetrating gaze on the viewer. Dou's exquisite painting is demonstrated by the detail of his cap, lace collar and the hand on the sill. In the background is an unfinished painting on an easel, under an open umbrella to protect it from falling dust. This picture shows Dou's own artistic identity, thus focusing on the very art of painting.