The artwork, titled “Man’s Head, Small Portrait III (Self-Portrait),” was created by Lucian Freud in 1963. This expressionist piece, rendered using oil on canvas, measures 25.4 by 30.5 centimeters and is currently held in a private collection. The genre of this artwork is a self-portrait.
The artwork portrays the artist himself in an expressionist style, which is evident through the bold brushstrokes and the emphasis on the emotional intensity of the subject’s face. The intricate use of light and shadow adds depth to the features, capturing a complex interplay of introspection and intensity. The facial contours and shadows are depicted with a raw and almost abstract technique, characteristic of Freud’s unique approach to capturing human form. The subtle yet profound details in the composition reflect an intimate and profound exploration of the artist’s own visage. The somber, subdued palette highlights the pensive and contemplative mood of the piece.