Self-portrait of Laurens Alma Tadema as a boy

The artwork titled Self-portrait of Laurens Alma Tadema as a boy is a painting created in 1852.

Artwork description: In the heart of the Fries Museum, a captivating self-portrait by Lawrence Alma Tadema, created in 1852, awaits your gaze. This intimate portrayal captures the essence of the young artist at the tender age of 16. Measuring 24.1 x 18.5 centimeters, the oil on panel painting offers a glimpse into Tadema's early artistic journey.

The portrait presents a seated Tadema, his youthful features framed by short blond hair and piercing blue eyes. Clad in a dark coat and a crisp white collar, he exudes an air of quiet contemplation. His right hand grasps a paintbrush and palette, while his left rests gently on the arm of the chair, hinting at his artistic aspirations.

The background, shrouded in darkness and mystery, is punctuated by a curtain on the left, adding depth and intrigue to the composition. Tadema's signature and the date, "L. Alma Tadema 1852," are inscribed in the lower right corner, authenticating the work.

This self-portrait stands as a testament to Tadema's precocious talent and his mastery of realistic portrayal. It is a poignant reminder of his artistic beginnings, before he would go on to achieve great renown as a painter of classical subjects.

As you stand before this intimate self-portrait, let your imagination transport you back in time to the world of a young artist on the cusp of greatness. Allow yourself to be captivated by the raw talent and determination that would one day shape the course of art history.

The painting is currently located at the Fries Museum. The artwork size is 24.1 x 18.5 centimeters. The author of the artwork is Laurens Alma Tadema.