Paper
Name Class Date

Georg Friedrich Schmidt, Self-Portrait with Spider (1758), Kunsthalle Bremen. Public domain. See this canvas under a moving light: the drawing, the true colour under the varnish, the bare pigment

The facts

Artist
Georg Friedrich Schmidt originaluniqueart.com/en/artists/georg-friedrich-schmidt/
Artist’s dates
1712 – 1775
Painted
1758
Medium
Engraving Lines cut directly into a metal plate with a hand tool, then inked and pressed onto paper.
Period
Renaissance
Held at
Kunsthalle Bremen originaluniqueart.com/en/museums/kunsthalle-bremen-bremen/
Artistic style
18th-century etching
Influences
Rococo
Notable elements
Intricate linework, Chiaroscuro, Spider
Subject or theme
Self-portrait, Writing

In context

Self-Portrait with Spider — Georg Friedrich Schmidt

When was this painted?

  1. 1710
  2. 1720
  3. 1730
  4. 1740
  5. 1750
  6. 1760
  7. 1770

Row above: the years. Row below: how old the artist was at the start and at the end of each span — 0 at birth, 63 at death.

Painted when the artist was 46. The artist lived to 63. 0 of the 1 dated works by this artist in our catalogue came earlier.

Shaded: the lifetime of Georg Friedrich Schmidt (1712–1775) ▲ this work, 1758 every dated painting, decade by decade

Compare with

Pick one work above: name two things it shares with this one, and one thing that's different.

More works to set beside this one: originaluniqueart.com/en/art/similar/georg-friedrich-schmidt-self-portrait-with-spider-D45DPE-en/

Colours

Measured from the image

    Main colour

    Espresso #3a3a35

    Catalogued palette

    • #3A3A35
    • #DBD8CF
    • #5F5F57
    • #9A978D

    These colours inside the artist’s whole palette Find other paintings by colour

    Main colour name
    Espresso
    Intensity
    Monochromatic How saturated and varied the colours are, from a single toned-down hue to many bright ones.
    Contrast
    Statement How much the colours differ in lightness and saturation across the picture.
    Harmony
    Unified Palette How well the colours work together, from clashing to fully unified.
    Brightness
    Balanced How light or dark the picture reads overall, from deep shadow to bright highlight.
    Saturation
    Muted How pure and strong the colours are, from near-grey to fully vivid.

    Where in the world is this painting looked at?

    • under 1%
    • 1–3%
    • 3–8%
    • 8–20%
    • 20% and over
    This painting alone has too few recorded visitors to map, so the plate reads every work by Georg Friedrich Schmidt over the last twelve months — 4 countries in all. Where these figures come from

    The ten leading countries

    1. 1 China 69.2%900 visits
    2. 2 Hong Kong 15.4%200 visits
    3. 3 Singapore 7.7%100 visits
    4. 4 United States of America 7.7%100 visits

    Find the three darkest countries on the map. Is the museum that keeps this painting in any of them? Write down one reason people far away might look at it.

    The 10 most looked-at works by Georg Friedrich Schmidt

    1. 1 Around Hübnersplatz, 1913 15.4%200 visits
    2. 2 Gate at the Imperial Castle, 1905 15.4%200 visits
    3. 3 Part of the Schwedenhof 15.4%200 visits
    4. 4 The Pegnitz with the Maxbrücke bridge and Lorenzkirche, 1904 7.7%100 visits
    5. 5 Self-Portrait with Spider, 1758 this painting 7.7%100 visits
    6. 6 Albrecht Dürer, 1909 7.7%100 visits
    7. 7 Part of Insel Schütt island, 1907 7.7%100 visits
    8. 8 Roofscape with St. Sebald 7.7%100 visits
    9. 9 View looking south along Winklerstrasse 7.7%100 visits
    10. 10 The Weisser Turm from the southwest 7.7%100 visits

    Together these works take 100.0% of all the attention this artist's paintings received over the last twelve months. The catalogue holds 32 works by this artist, of which 10 were looked at at least once. This painting ranks 5 of them, with 7.7% of that attention (100 visits). The same counts, month by month

    Bars measure attention, not quality. Pick the work at the top and this one: name one thing that might make a painting famous beyond how well it is painted.

    About this artwork

    Self-Portrait with Spider — Georg Friedrich Schmidt

    Georg Friedrich Schmidt’s ‘Self-Portrait with Spider’: A Window into the Rococo Soul

    “Self-Portrait with Spider,” created by Georg Friedrich Schmidt in 1758, is more than just a depiction of an artist at his desk; it's a meticulously crafted window into the intellectual and emotional landscape of the late 18th century. Executed as a monochrome etching on paper, this work exemplifies the hallmarks of the Rococo style – a delicate balance between elegance, introspection, and subtle symbolism – while showcasing Schmidt’s mastery of printmaking technique. The piece, currently residing in the Kunsthalle Bremen, offers a compelling glimpse into the artistic sensibilities of a man grappling with his craft and perhaps, with the complexities of human existence.

    A Study in Light and Line: Technical Brilliance

    Schmidt’s skill as an etcher is immediately apparent. The artwork relies almost entirely on intricate linework, achieved through painstaking hatching and cross-hatching techniques. This deliberate manipulation of line density creates a remarkable tonal range within the monochrome palette, generating a convincing illusion of form and shadow. The artist employed a drypoint needle – a tool that allows for a slightly roughened surface when pressed into the copper plate – adding texture and depth to the image. The process itself was demanding: ink was meticulously applied to the prepared plate, carefully wiped away to reveal only the lines intended for transfer, and finally, the paper was pressed onto the inked surface, resulting in a crisp, detailed print. The precision and control demonstrated are hallmarks of Schmidt’s dedication to his craft.

    Symbolism and Contemplation: Decoding the Image

    Beyond its technical prowess, “Self-Portrait with Spider” is rich in symbolic potential. The inclusion of the spider itself – crawling across the wall – immediately draws the viewer’s attention and invites interpretation. Traditionally associated with creativity, patience, and even cunning, the spider could represent Schmidt's artistic process, his meticulous approach to detail, or perhaps a darker reflection on human nature. The artist’s gaze, directed out of the window towards an unseen landscape, suggests introspection and a contemplative mood. The setting – a simple desk adorned with writing implements and bottles – reinforces this sense of quiet engagement with thought and creation. The slightly off-center composition adds to the work's subtle unease, mirroring perhaps the anxieties inherent in artistic endeavor.

    Historical Context: Rococo and the Prussian Court

    Created in 1758, “Self-Portrait with Spider” firmly places Schmidt within the context of the Rococo period. This style, flourishing across Europe – particularly in France and Prussia – emphasized grace, elegance, and a sense of playful sophistication. Schmidt’s work reflects this aesthetic through its refined details, delicate lines, and emphasis on capturing subtle expressions. His artistic journey was significantly shaped by his connections within the Prussian court, fostered through friendships with figures like Antoine Pesne and Nicolas Lancret, allowing him access to Parisian artistic circles and further refining his style. The piece stands as a testament to the importance of patronage in supporting artistic development during this era.

    Artist and museum

    Artist

    Georg Friedrich Schmidt

    Born in Wandsbek, Germany

    early life and artistic pursuits

    georg friedrich schmidt, a german engraver, etcher, and pastel painter, was born in 1712 in wandlitz, germany. initially destined to follow his family's cloth-making trade, schmidt's innate artistic talent led him down a different path. he enrolled in the prussian academy of arts, marking the beginning of his illustrious career.

    artistic influences and notable works

    schmidt's work is characterized by its delicate, refined style, quintessentially rococo. one of his most celebrated pieces is self-portrait with spider, a masterpiece showcasing his skill in capturing the subtleties of human expression. this piece can be found in the kunsthalle bremen (bremen, germany), a testament to schmidt's enduring legacy.

    professional milestones and associations

    court painter*: schmidt was befriended by antoine pesne, director and court painter, who introduced him to nicolas lancret, allowing him to continue his studies in paris. military service*: though initially conscripted, schmidt's artistic talent secured his release, thanks to the intercession of friedrich wilhelm von grumbkow.

    legacy and remembrance

    schmidt's impact on the art world is undeniable. his portraits, including those of frederick the great, continue to inspire artists and art enthusiasts alike. to explore more of schmidt's works and those of his contemporaries, visit georg friedrich schmidt's page on AllPaintingsStore.com, where you can also discover other notable artists like rembrandt van rijn and françois boucher.

    view schmidt's self-portrait with spider in the kunsthalle bremen (bremen, germany) collection on AllPaintingsStore.com.

    explore the gurlitt collection, a significant part of the kunstsammlungen und museen augsburg, which features works with a complex history, now preserved for the world's benefit.

    delve into the rococo style, characterized by its elegance and refinement, as seen in schmidt's and boucher's works.

    discover more about georg friedrich schmidt and his contemporaries on AllPaintingsStore.com, where art history meets innovation.

    Museum

    Kunsthalle Bremen

    On show in Bremen, Germany

    A Sanctuary of Timeless Beauty in Bremen

    Nestled within the historic heart of Germany, the

    Kunsthalle Bremen

    stands as a profound testament to the enduring power of human creativity and the cultural soul of the Hansebatic city. It is not merely a repository for artifacts but a living, breathing dialogue between the past and the present. As one wanders through its halls, there is an immediate sense of being enveloped by a curated legacy that spans centuries, offering a sanctuary where the whispers of Old Masters meet the bold, provocative voices of contemporary visionaries. For the art lover, it offers a pilgrimage; for the collector, a source of deep inspiration; and for the interior designer, a masterclass in how color, texture, and form can transform a space into an emotional landscape.

    The museum’s collection is a meticulously woven tapestry of European art history, characterized by its remarkable depth and scholarly rigor. Visitors are often first captivated by the exquisite mastery found in the works of the 19th century, where the delicate interplay of light and shadow evokes a sense of profound nostalgia. The galleries house significant treasures from the Impressionist and Post-Impressionist eras, allowing one to trace the evolution of perception itself. Yet, it is the museum's ability to bridge these classical foundations with the avant-garde that truly distinguishes it. The presence of modern installations and contemporary works creates a rhythmic tension, challenging the viewer to find the threads of continuity between a Renaissance portrait and a minimalist abstraction.

    Architectural Rhythm and Light

    The architecture of the Kunsthalle Bremen serves as a majestic vessel for this artistic journey. The building itself is an architectural marvel that balances the weight of tradition with the lightness of modern design. Its structure provides a rhythmic cadence to the viewing experience, with spaces designed to manipulate natural light in ways that breathe life into the canvases they illuminate. This intentionality in space makes the museum a cornerstone for those interested in the intersection of art and environment. The way the galleries unfold—sometimes expanding into grand, airy halls and sometimes retreating into intimate, contemplative alcoves—mirrors the complexity of the human experience, making every visit feel like a new discovery.

    A Dynamic Cultural Catalyst

    What truly makes the Kunsthalle Bremen unique is its role as a dynamic cultural catalyst through its rotating exhibitions. The museum does not rest upon its historical laurels; instead, it constantly reinvents itself through ambitious, world-class exhibitions that bring global art movements to the shores of the Weser river. These temporary showcases often feature groundbreaking themes that explore identity, nature, and the digital frontier, ensuring that the institution remains at the cutting edge of contemporary discourse. It is this rare combination of a prestigious permanent collection and a fearless approach to new narratives that cements its status as an essential destination for anyone seeking to understand the heartbeat of modern art.

    Where to read more

    Find this online

    QR code linking to the download page for Self-Portrait with Spider

    originaluniqueart.com/en/art/download/georg-friedrich-schmidt-self-portrait-with-spider-D45DPE-en/

    Cite this artwork

    MLA
    Schmidt, Georg Friedrich. Self-Portrait with Spider. 1758, Kunsthalle Bremen. https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/georg-friedrich-schmidt-self-portrait-with-spider-D45DPE-en/
    APA
    Schmidt, Georg Friedrich (1758). Self-Portrait with Spider [Painting]. Kunsthalle Bremen. https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/georg-friedrich-schmidt-self-portrait-with-spider-D45DPE-en/
    Chicago
    Georg Friedrich Schmidt. Self-Portrait with Spider. 1758. Kunsthalle Bremen. https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/georg-friedrich-schmidt-self-portrait-with-spider-D45DPE-en/
    Harvard
    Schmidt, Georg Friedrich (1758) Self-Portrait with Spider. Kunsthalle Bremen. Available at: https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/georg-friedrich-schmidt-self-portrait-with-spider-D45DPE-en/

    Look closely

    Self-Portrait with Spider — Georg Friedrich Schmidt

    Look closely

    Answer in your own words. There are no wrong answers here — only answers you can explain.

    1. What catches your eye first, and why?
    2. Which colours or shapes create the mood — and what is that mood?
    3. How many faces can you find? ____ (our catalogue counts 1 — do you agree?)
    4. Our catalogue files this work under: self-portrait, etching print, spider symbolism. Do you agree? What would you add, or take away?
    5. Look back at Around Hübnersplatz (1913), earlier in this guide. Name two things it shares with this work, and one that is different.

    Your response

    Write a short paragraph about this artwork. Use the facts from the earlier parts of this guide, and your answers above.

    Questions & Answers

    What does "Self-Portrait with Spider" share with the rest of Georg Friedrich Schmidt's output?

    Within Georg Friedrich Schmidt's output, "Self-Portrait with Spider" sits in the Rococo Portraiture style, alongside the themes of rococo elegance, pesne influence, germanate artistic traditions, court, symbolic introspection, creative themes, self-portrait series, legacy.

    Is "Self-Portrait with Spider" more bright or more dark overall?

    "Self-Portrait with Spider" by Georg Friedrich Schmidt is recorded as balanced, with a gentle luminance luminance.

    What national origin stands behind the Rococo Portraiture of "Self-Portrait with Spider"?

    "Self-Portrait with Spider" connects the Rococo Portraiture movement with Germany through its creator's birthplace.