Architectural Capriccio with a Self-Portrait

In this architectural capriccio Bernardo Bellotto has depicted himself in the crimson robes and golden stole of the Venetian nobility, standing before a magnificent arrangement of columned arches and colonnaded galleries. He steps forward with a gesture of proud display, as if inviting the viewer to behold and admire his latest artistic creation - the splendid painted architectural capriccio before which he stands - as proof of his artistic capabilities and invention. Attended by his faithful servant Checo (Francesco), he is followed by an elderly ecclesiastic carrying a folder, which may contain sketches. At the left, a young peasant boy points to Bellotto as if to encourage the viewer to take particular note of the splendidly-dressed painter.

Bellotto inserted himself into the compositions of important paintings on other occasions, too.