Martin van Meytens the Younger portrays himself here in an informal pose. A miniature in his left hand and the canvas, on which his right hand is resting, indicate his profession as a portrait painter. Meytens was born into an artist family in the Netherlands. He set off in 1712/13 on travels lasting almost two decades, spending time in various countries before settling permanently in Vienna in 1731. His portraits were sought-after in the imperial court and in aristocratic circles. To meet the demand, he established a studio and trained many students. In 1759 he was also appointed director of the Vienna art academy, founded in 1692 and one of the oldest institutions of its type. Women were not officially admitted to this academy until 1920.
1731/1735
Oil on canvas
80.0 x 65.0cm
11650
Image © Belvedere, Vienna, 2024
Where you'll find this
Upper Belvedere
Permanent collection