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Artist/Maker(s): Marco Benefial (Italian, 1684 - 1764)
Culture: Italian
Date: 1731
Medium: Red chalk on paper
Dimensions: 35.4 x 23 cm (13 15/16 x 9 1/16 in.)
Signed: This beautifully drawn self-portrait shows the artist with a pen and sketchbook in hand. The inscription in the cartouche identifies the sitter as the Roman painter, Marco Benefial, aged forty-seven years and one month. The ornamental border and billowing drapery accentuate the dignified pose of the sitter. Contemporary biographers commented on Benefial's imposing appearance and his pride in his own appearance: the drawing is certainly an indication of this.
Markings: Markings: Stamped in the center of the cartouche, collector's mark of Charles Rogers (L. 624)
Inscriptions: Inscription: Inscribed in the cartouche by the artist, Aeques Marcus Benefial Romanus Anorum Quadraginta Septem Mensisque Unius” Secondary Inscription: Inscribed in the bottom right corner, the intials of the collector William Esdaile “WE” (L. 2617).
Alternate Title(s): Self-Portrait (Display Title)
SKU: 200358
