Self-portrait Giovanni Paolo Lomazzo (1538-1592)

The painting presents a three-quarter view of a man engaged in artistic activity. He is positioned against a dark, almost impenetrable background that isolates him and directs attention solely towards his figure. The lighting emphasizes his face and hands, creating a dramatic chiaroscuro effect.
Here we see the subject wearing an elaborate hat adorned with feathers and a decorative emblem affixed to its front. This headwear suggests a certain status or affiliation, possibly indicative of membership in an artistic guild or academy. A thick, somewhat unkempt beard and hair contribute to an overall impression of intellectual intensity and perhaps even a touch of eccentricity.
The man holds drawing tools – a compass and what appears to be a stylus – in his left hand, poised over a long, thin piece of wood that likely serves as a sketching surface. This action is central to the composition; it directly links him to his profession and underscores the act of creation itself. The placement of these instruments suggests not just representation but also active engagement in artistic practice.
A trailing vine or plant motif drapes across his shoulder and down towards the lower edge of the canvas, partially obscuring a Latin inscription that runs along the bottom. This botanical element introduces an intriguing layer of symbolism. Plants often represent growth, knowledge, and even lineage – suggesting a connection to nature, learning, and perhaps familial heritage. The partial obscurity of the inscription hints at a deliberate attempt to prioritize visual impact over explicit textual explanation.
The man’s gaze is directed slightly off-center, conveying an air of introspection or focused concentration. His expression is complex; it combines elements of seriousness with a subtle hint of amusement or self-awareness. This nuanced portrayal suggests a personality that is both dedicated and possessing a degree of ironic detachment.
Overall, the painting conveys a sense of intellectual pursuit, artistic dedication, and a carefully constructed persona. The artist has not merely depicted himself but presented an image designed to communicate something about his identity as a creator and thinker within a specific cultural context.