Bartolomé Esteban Murillo (1617-1682) was a Spanish painter best known for his allegorical works, Murillo also produced a several paintings of 17th c. women and children

According to the National Gallery in London, the Latin inscription on the cartouche at the centre of the ledge explains that the self-portrait was made at the request of Murillo's children: 'Bart (olo) mé Murillo portraying himself to fulfil the wishes and prayers of his children - or sons'.