Self-Portrait in a Fur Cap

Self-Portrait in a Fur Cap by Joseph Wright of Derby

Joseph Wright of Derby (1734–1797) was an English painter renowned for his use of chiaroscuro and his depictions of the Industrial Revolution. The painting titled Self-Portrait in a Fur Cap, created between 1765 and 1768, exemplifies his skill in monochrome pastel, specifically using the grisaille technique on blue-gray laid paper. This self-portrait reflects Wright's interest in capturing the subtleties of light and shadow, a hallmark of his artistic style. The work is significant for its introspective quality, offering insight into the artist's self-perception during a period of burgeoning scientific and industrial advancement. Wright's contributions to art are notable for their intersection with the Enlightenment, as he often depicted scenes of scientific experiments and industrial scenes, aligning with the intellectual currents of his time. This self-portrait not only showcases his technical prowess but also serves as a personal testament to his engagement with the themes of progress and human inquiry.

"Self-Portrait in a Fur Cap" by Joseph Wright of Derby is a monochrome pastel (grisaille) artwork created between 1765 and 1768, utilizing blue-gray laid paper to achieve its subtle tonal variations. The piece exemplifies Wright's skill in chiaroscuro, capturing his likeness with a focus on texture and light, and is part of the collection at the Yale Center for British Art.