This week, the Oxford Dictionary picked their annual word of the year, and this year's entry is "SELFIE", for self-portrait. The Selfie has risen to new heights with technology, especially with celebrities who love to post pictures of themselves in "everyday" situations, so that the general voyaristic public can watch their every move. The latest celebrity selfies range from drinking a Starbucks to taking a bath!
Well, the self-portrait is nothing new, only magnified by technology, instantaneous and wide-reaching. In the 18th Century, the selfie was generally painted, by artists, who captured themselves on canvas or by etchings or drawings. Of course, they took time to produce, and were seen by people close at hand, but the artists indulged themselves here nonetheless. Everyone likes to take stock of themselves, look in the mirror, see photos or videos of themselves now and again.
Below is an interesting one: Artist Carriera's self portrait along with a smaller portrait of her sister, 1709.
And, below that one of Gilbert Stuart in a rather pensive mood, 1785. And, one of Gabrielle Capet with brush in hand, 1783.
Finally, one of me, taking my own picture....I couldn't resist!
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