Self-portrait with grey felt hat (September 1887 - October 1887) by Vincent van GoghVan Gogh Museum
It is said that ‘every painter paints himself’. In most cases, this comes in the form of a standard self portrait, such as this iconic image of Van Gogh (who liked to paint himself more than most). For others, it wasn’t quite so easy, fashionable, or desirable to create a self portrait. But that didn’t always stop them.
The Last Judgement (16th century) by Master of 1549MNAA National Museum of Ancient Art
Some artists hide a self portrait in paintings focused around other themes. Artists sneaking in their own image in a crowd scene, in the background, or even hidden in other details is more common than you might think.
Below we have four examples of paintings where artists have hidden themselves. Take a close look at these pictures and see if you can spot them.
Still Life with Cheeses, Almonds and Pretzels (c. 1615) by Peeters, ClaraMauritshuis
'Still Life with Cheeses, Almonds & Pretzels' -Clara Peeters
Clara Peeters was among the most talented still-life artists of her day. At first glance, this 1615 picture has no visible human figures. A humble display of dairy products with bread, it seems to be nothing more than a classic Dutch still life painting from the era. But can you spot the artist?
Look closely in the reflection of the ceramic goblet's pewter lid and you can see a small self-portrait, distorted by the curve.
The artist also ‘carved’ her name into the butter knife instead of signing the painting.
The Coronation of the Emperor and Empress (1808-1822) by Jacques Louis DavidPalace of Versailles
'Coronation of the Emperor Napoleon I' - Jacques-Louis David
Napoleon commissioned David to paint his 1804 coronation in a huge work that sent a strong political message. Today, the artwork hangs in the Louvre's Great Hall. It's so big the people appear life-size. But can you spot the artist in the crowd?
He sits in the theater box in the back center of the composition, sketching the scene in his notebook (a big clue as to his identity). David was present at the actual coronation and his inclusion in the final version shows his allegiance to the crown.
'The Last Judgment' - Michelangelo
Painted between 1536 and 1541, the Renaissance master was able to express his frustration while painting The Last Judgment fresco. Apparently, he loathed the commission to paint the Sistine Chapel and used this opportunity to have a little dig at his patron, the Pope. But can you see him?
In the center of the painting, Michelangelo's eyeless face and an empty suit of flagellated skin hang from Saint Bartholomew's hand. The figure is supposed to be waiting to discover if he is off to heaven or hell after a gruelling trial of faith, a reflection of the artist's own feelings about the commission.
Adoration of the Magi (1475) by Botticelli FilipepiUffizi Gallery
'Adoration of the Magi' - Botticelli
Botticelli's Adoration of the Magi, painted circa 1475, depicts the three wise men visiting the baby Jesus. It was common in Renaissance Italy to portray members of important Florentine families as the magi. In this instance it is members of the wealthy Medici family. But the artist also managed to sneak himself into the scene. Can you spot him?
Standing at the far right in a brown robe, Botticelli has painted himself as one of only two figures in the painting looking directly at the viewer.
The birth of Venus (1483 - 1485) by Sandro BotticelliUffizi Gallery
Want to know more?
If you enjoyed Botticelli’s secret self portrait and would like to know more about his work, then you can discover more here.
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