Artwork Page for Self-Portrait

Details / Information for Self-Portrait

Self-Portrait

c. 1872–74

Armand Guillaumin

(French, 1841–1927)
Culture
France, 19th century
Medium
oil on fabric
Measurements
Unframed: 45.4 x 37.5 cm (17 7/8 x 14 3/4 in.)
Credit Line
Bequest of Noah L. Butkin 1980.266
Public Domain
You can copy, modify, and distribute this work, all without asking permission. Learn more about CMA's Open Access Initiative.
Location
Not on view
Print
?

Did You Know?

In 1891, Guillaumin won 100,000 francs in a state lottery, allowing him to quit his government transportation position and begin painting full time.

Description

Armand Guillaumin created numerous self-portraits throughout his career. In this early example, the muted, brown tones and somber gaze downward in the painting convey seriousness, while the vivid blue, orange, green, and yellow colors in Self-Portrait (2020.129) suggest a confidence echoed by the artist’s direct gaze. Both emotions were experienced by Guillaumin around this time, as he sought to establish himself as a professional artist alongside a full-time job for the French railway system.
A vertically oriented oil painting in thick brushstrokes depicts a man with light skin tone and a furrowed brow. He turns slightly to our right, looking at us with an intense gaze. He has thick, curly black hair and a dense beard. Wearing a dark, shadowed jacket, he emerges from a textured, dark gray background. Visible highlights on his forehead and nose define his pale face. A red signature marks the bottom right.

Self-Portrait

c. 1872–74

Armand Guillaumin

(French, 1841–1927)
France, 19th century

See Also

Visually Similar by AI

Contact Us

The information about this object, including provenance, may not be currently accurate. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please fill out the appropriate request form linked below:

Update or Correct Artwork Information

Imagery or Rights for Non-Open-Access Artworks

Report a Website Issue

Further Questions About This Artwork