Self-Portrait at the Easel

What you see

Sofonisba portrays herself seated at the easel, her body turned toward the picture and her face toward us. One hand touches the brush to the canvas, the other grips a long stick. On the easel, to the left, a woman in a pink robe embraces and kisses a small child.

Her clothing is almost entirely black, so the light gathers on her face, lace collar and hands. The painting within the painting, by contrast, glows with pinks, blues and pale skin tones. Spot the palette with dabs of red and white paint resting on the easel, and the braid wrapped around her head.