Self-portrait with the Portrait of his Wife, Margaretha van Rees, and their Daughter Maria

In this self-portrait from 1699, Adriaen van der Werff presents himself not just as a painter, but as a devoted family man. He sits at his easel, brush in hand, turning to face us directly. His wife, Margaretha van Rees, and their young daughter, Maria, appear as if in a painting within the painting, a clever device that highlights his dual roles. The artist’s gaze is confident, inviting us into his studio, a space that feels both intimate and professional. The meticulous detail, from the textures of the clothing to the subtle play of light on the faces, reflects the refined style that brought him considerable acclaim across Europe. This work exemplifies the elegant, polished aesthetic popular among wealthy patrons of the late Baroque period, a stark contrast to the more earthy naturalism of earlier Dutch painting.