Parmigianino’s Self-Portrait in a Convex Mirror

Parmigianino’s Self-Portrait in a Convex Mirror offers a different look to the classic stiff self-portrait. The view of looking through the curved reflective surface allows us, the audience, to see what the artist saw and painted. The image looks impersonal and candid and not posed. The oil painting’s colors and figure both add to a gloomy, cold feeling. There does not appear to be much light, except that which comes from the small window. All the colors are dark, ranging from grey, black, and brown and some white. Because of the contrast between the one dark wall and the other lighter wall, the fair-skinned artist stands out among his dark garments. The figure appears to be delicate, the lighting and shape of the face bring an element of innocence.
The vacant eyes and small smirk of the figure seem to penetrate the audience. The eyes carry little life or light, while the smirk almost brings a certain warmth to the painting. The hand in the fore-front seems out of place, it is gaunt with its un-proportional, sickly fingers. The coloring of the hands also differs from the skin-tone of the face. The figures garments and small pinky ring show a sign of wealth and status.
The oil painting stands out due to its unique technical construction. The convex mirror lens offers a unique and interesting perspective that captures the audience. The blank, quizzical stare and unusually large hand also adds an element to think about. Although the lens brings an element of inviting, the stare creates a feeling of caution and weariness.