“Head of an Irishman” is an artwork by Lucian Freud, created in 1999 using oil on canvas. The piece is part of the Expressionism art movement and belongs to the portrait genre. It is currently held in a private collection.
The artwork depicts a male figure in a formal attire, characterized by a suit jacket, white shirt, and patterned tie. The subject’s face, rendered with meticulous detail, conveys a sense of introspection and gravitas. The brushwork is expressive, consistent with Freud’s characteristic style, employing a textured application of paint that highlights the contours and shadows of the face. The background is minimalist, allowing the viewer to focus on the nuanced expressions and the raw humanity of the subject. The color palette is subdued, with earthy tones that enhance the realism and emotional depth of the portrait.
