Self-Portrait as Imitatio

Angelica Kauffman's "Self-Portrait as Imitatio," a captivating drawing from 1771, invites us to contemplate the artist's role and the act of creation. Housed in the esteemed Yale Center for British Art, this intimate self-portrait draws us into the artist's world. nn Kauffman presents herself seated at a table, her body subtly angled, engaging the viewer with a direct gaze. The soft folds of her dress and the delicate drape of a light-colored scarf around her head speak to the elegance of the era. In her right hand, she holds a pencil, the tool of her trade, emphasizing her identity as an artist. nn The play of light and shadow adds depth and dimension to the composition. A single light source from the left illuminates Kauffman's features, while casting subtle shadows on the opposite side, creating a sense of volume and life. The unadorned background further focuses our attention on the artist herself, inviting us to contemplate her inner thoughts and artistic process.