The artwork titled “Autoretrato,” created by Jose Maria Velasco in 1860, belongs to the Romanticism art movement and is a self-portrait. Within this artistic context, Velasco captures his own likeness, thus contributing to the genre of self-portraiture.
The artwork is a meticulously rendered pencil drawing, showcasing a strikingly realistic representation of the artist. Velasco’s facial features are carefully detailed, with particular emphasis on his intense gaze and the texture of his long, flowing beard. The delicate shading and precise lines contribute to the overall sense of depth and volume, reflecting the Romanticism movement’s focus on individuality and emotional expression. The background remains subtle and unobtrusive, directing the viewer’s attention wholly to the artist’s visage, thus emphasizing the personal and introspective nature of the self-portrait.