By Alte Pinakothek, Bayerische Staatsgemäldesammlungen
Alte Pinakothek, Bavarian State Painting Collections
Self-Portrait (around 1620/21 and 1627) by Anthonis van DyckOriginal Source: Object in the Online-Collection of the Pinakotheken
The depiction seen today is the result of Van Dyck’s later reworking of an earlier picture.
In the Xray the original composition, created before his trip to Italy, is revealed.
Originally, Van Dyck brings his hand nonchalantly towards his chin.
The present posture, with his arm shown parallel to the lower edge of the picture, is taken from Italian works that influenced the artist.
For this reason it is assumed that Van Dyck adapted the painting after his return in 1627 to the style he had developed in Italy...
...adding the chain of honour he was given by the Duke of Mantua in 1622.
© Bayerische Staatsgemäldesammlungen
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