Treviso - Venice, 1500 -1570 · The painter puts himself on stage

In this probable self-portrait, costume, gaze and monumentality affirm the dignity of a master trained by Titian but who has become independent.

Paris Bordone was born in Treviso in 1500 and died in Venice in 1570. Arriving young in the lagoon city, he went through Titian's workshop but developed a personal language, firmer in contours and often more complex in architecture. He works for sponsors from Venice, Treviso and other European courts, notably in France according to ancient sources. His portraits are distinguished by confident poses, sumptuous fabrics and a direct relationship between figure and spectator. The Prado canvas, 104 cm high and dated from the 16th century, is traditionally identified as his Self-portrait, even if the question mark preserved in certain catalogs remember that identity is not absolutely documented. The man presents himself without anecdote: dark suit, beard, lit face and gaze are enough to build his status. If the model is indeed Bordone, the image contributes to the social elevation of the resurgent painter, now capable of representing himself as a gentleman and not as a simple craftsman. The "Paris Bordone" selection notably compares Self-portrait (?). Its reading favors composition.

Whether or not it is Bordone himself, the painting asserts a clear idea: the modern painter deserves the same presence as his noble models.