Self-Portrait of the Artist Drawing on a Lithographic Stone

Joseph Denis Odevaere

National Gallery of Art

The image shows a man from the waist up. He is seated and holds a writing tablet in his left hand, while his right hand holds a pen poised above the surface as if in the act of writing or drawing. The man has sharp facial features, a strong jawline, prominent cheekbones, and distinctive sideburns. His hair is short and wavy, neatly styled atop his head. He wears a dark, buttoned coat with a high collar over a visible cravat tied around his neck, and sports a medal or insignia on his coat. The background is plain with a slight texture.