Detail in a self-portrait

The painting shows the artist at his easel, facing a blank canvas, except for a Greek poem pinned to it with a fine needle. The poem, written by Dominique Lampsoons in the style of the recently published Anacreontica, celebrates the liveliness of the portrait. The inclusion of the Greek poem not only highlights the relationship between classical erudition and artistic craftsmanship, but also reinforces the perception of the artist as a learned individual.