“Autoportrait – Boulevard Saint-Jacques, Paris 14ème,” created by Brassai in 1932, is an exemplary work of the Surrealism movement in the genre of photography. The artwork captures the artist himself in an urban setting, positioned on a cobblestone street at night. The scene is illuminated by streetlights, casting sharp shadows and creating a moody, cinematic atmosphere. Brassai, bundled in a heavy coat and hat, stands beside a tripod-mounted camera, focusing intently on his subject. The background features the indistinct forms of buildings and signs, further emphasizing the nocturnal urban landscape. This self-portrait not only showcases Brassai’s technical prowess but also his ability to imbue the everyday with a sense of wonder and mystery, characteristic of the Surrealism movement.
