Self Portrait with Two Circles: Rembrandt
Few paintings in Western art history have provoked as much fascination, speculation, and admiration as Rembrandt van Rijn’s Self Portrait with Two Circles. Created during the final decade of the Dutch master’s life, this enigmatic Self Portrait combines realism, symbolism, and mystery in a way that continues to inspire debate centuries later. Today, the painting is regarded not only as one of Rembrandt’s masterpieces but also as one of the most puzzling works of Baroque portraiture.
In this article, we will explore the story of Self Portrait with Two Circles, the techniques Rembrandt used to create it, the meaning and symbolism hidden within its brushstrokes, the controversies it has generated, and what it represents in the broader context of Rembrandt’s career. We’ll also look at public opinion, both positive and critical, and answer the question: Where is Self Portrait with Two Circles today?
The Story Behind Self Portrait with Two Circles
Painted between 1665 and 1669, in the twilight years of Rembrandt’s life, Self Portrait with Two Circles reflects a man who had lived through triumphs and tragedies. By this time, Rembrandt was no longer the celebrated painter of Amsterdam’s Golden Age elite. His fortunes had declined, his wife and several children had died, and he lived in relative obscurity. Yet, despite financial hardship, Rembrandt continued to produce works of profound artistic depth.
The painting shows the artist himself, dressed in a fur-lined coat and a white cap, holding the tools of his trade , a palette and brushes. Behind him looms a neutral, somewhat mysterious background marked by two large, faintly drawn circles.
What makes this work stand out is not only its technical mastery but also its aura of authority. Rembrandt presents himself not as a broken man but as a confident, almost timeless figure, confronting the viewer directly. The circles , the most debated feature of the painting , add an additional layer of mystery.
How the Self Portrait with Two Circles Was Painted
Rembrandt’s technique in this painting epitomizes the Baroque style, characterized by dramatic use of light and shadow. His brushwork is looser than in his earlier Self Portraits, reflecting the confidence of an artist who no longer sought perfection in surface finish but rather emotional truth and depth.
The Face: Rendered with extraordinary detail, Rembrandt’s face is a study in aging. Deep lines, sagging skin, and a steady gaze reveal the artist’s acceptance of mortality.
The Clothing: His fur cloak and white cap are painted with broader, more expressive strokes, showcasing his ability to suggest texture and material with minimal effort.
The Background: Unlike many earlier portraits, the setting is bare, emphasizing the circles and pushing attention back to the figure.
Art historians note that Rembrandt may have used impasto techniques (thick, textured paint) in some areas, allowing light to reflect off the canvas in lifelike ways. The unfinished appearance of certain sections , especially the circles , contributes to the painting’s ongoing mystery.
What Is Self Portrait with Two Circles All About?
At its core, Self Portrait with Two Circles is about identity, mastery, and the role of the artist. Unlike portraits of nobility or commissioned likenesses, this work is intensely personal. Rembrandt, facing the end of his career and life, chose to represent himself as a master painter in control of his craft, yet surrounded by ambiguity.
The painting asks the viewer to see beyond appearance. The circles suggest something more universal , possibly perfection, eternity, or divine order , while Rembrandt himself stands grounded in the real world, aged yet unbowed.
Symbolism and Meaning of Self Portrait with Two Circles
The two circles are the most discussed feature of the painting. Their meaning has never been definitively explained, leaving scholars to speculate:
Symbol of Perfection: Some argue the circles symbolize artistic perfection. In Renaissance theory, the ability to draw a perfect circle was considered a sign of true mastery. By placing them behind himself, Rembrandt may have been declaring his place among the great masters.
Eternity and Infinity: Circles are timeless symbols of eternity, unity, and infinity. They could represent Rembrandt’s acknowledgment of his place in the eternal cycle of art and human existence.
Reference to Giotto: A famous legend tells of the Italian painter Giotto, who proved his skill by drawing a perfect freehand circle. Rembrandt might have been invoking this story to align himself with such legendary figures.
Mystical or Religious Meaning: Some interpret the circles as representing divine creation, the heavens, or spiritual wholeness. Given Rembrandt’s frequent exploration of biblical themes, this reading is possible.
Unfinished Symbol: Others believe the circles were never meant to be finished , serving instead as an abstract backdrop, perhaps reminding viewers that life and art are always incomplete.
Thus, the symbolism of Self Portrait with Two Circles lies in its openness to interpretation. The circles transform a realistic portrait into a philosophical meditation.
What Is Happening in Self Portrait with Two Circles?
At first glance, little “happens” in this painting. Rembrandt simply stands before us, holding his tools. Yet the action is subtle:
He confronts the viewer with direct eye contact, almost challenging us to look deeper.
He positions himself against the circles, inviting comparison between human imperfection and geometric perfection.
His palette and brushes hint that he is at work, mid-process, though we do not see his canvas.
In this way, the portrait becomes a dialogue between the artist, his art, and the audience.
What Type of Art Is Self Portrait with Two Circles?
The painting is classified as:
A Self Portrait: One of over 80 Self Portraits Rembrandt painted throughout his life.
Baroque Art: It belongs to the Dutch Golden Age, part of the broader Baroque movement, with its emphasis on realism, drama, and emotional depth.
Oil on Canvas: Painted with oils, likely using multiple layers to achieve depth and richness.
Psychological Portraiture: Unlike decorative portraits, this work delves into the psychology and philosophy of the sitter.
Controversy Around Self Portrait with Two Circles
The painting has not escaped controversy, primarily due to the mystery of the circles and questions about authenticity:
Unfinished or Complete? Some argue the work looks unfinished, especially in the circles and background. Was this intentional, or did Rembrandt leave it incomplete?
The Circles Debate: Scholars disagree on their meaning , perfection, religious symbolism, or artistic challenge? This uncertainty has fueled endless speculation.
Authenticity Questions: At times, critics questioned whether Rembrandt himself painted the entire work, or whether parts were done by his workshop. Today, most agree it is by Rembrandt’s own hand.
These debates have only added to the painting’s mystique.
Self Portrait with Two Circles Today: Public Opinion:
What People Like
Emotional Depth: Viewers are struck by Rembrandt’s honesty in portraying himself aged and imperfect.
Mystery of the Circles: The ambiguity keeps audiences engaged, sparking curiosity and interpretation.
Technical Brilliance: His brushwork, especially in the face, remains unmatched.
What People Dislike
Unfinished Look: Some viewers find the background and circles too vague, even sloppy.
Somber Tone: The painting lacks the polish and glamour of portraits by other Baroque artists, which can make it less appealing to casual viewers.
Confusion: The lack of clear meaning frustrates those seeking straightforward symbolism.
Where Is Self Portrait with Two Circles Today?
Self Portrait with Two Circles is housed at Kenwood House, Hampstead, London. It is part of the Iveagh Bequest, gifted to the nation by Edward Cecil Guinness, the 1st Earl of Iveagh, in 1927. Today, it remains one of the highlights of Kenwood House’s collection, drawing art lovers, historians, and tourists alike.
Legacy of Self Portrait with Two Circles
This painting is not just a Self Portrait; it is a declaration of identity and legacy. For centuries, artists and scholars have admired how Rembrandt fused realism with philosophy. The painting’s power lies in its unanswered questions: What do the circles mean? Why did Rembrandt choose this moment in life to depict himself so boldly?
By leaving the meaning open, Rembrandt ensured that Self Portrait with Two Circles remains alive in discussion, continuing to captivate audiences more than 350 years later.
Self Portrait with Two Circles by Rembrandt is a masterpiece of art history, blending technical skill, psychological depth, and symbolic mystery. Painted in the final years of the artist’s life, it captures not only his likeness but also his philosophy: that art is both deeply personal and universally resonant.
The two circles remain an enigma, symbolizing everything from artistic mastery to infinity. This unresolved meaning has fueled centuries of debate, making the painting as much a riddle as a portrait.
Today, housed in Kenwood House in London, the painting continues to inspire admiration and controversy, embodying the enduring genius of Rembrandt van Rijn.
For anyone exploring Baroque art, Dutch Golden Age painting, or the legacy of Rembrandt, Self Portrait with Two Circles stands as an essential, endlessly fascinating masterpiece.
