The artwork, entitled “Self-portrait as a young man,” was created by Caspar David Friedrich in the year 1800. This self-portrait, rendered in chalk, is a prime example of the Romanticism art movement. The dimensions of the piece are 42 x 27.6 cm, and it currently resides in the National Gallery of Denmark (Statens Museum for Kunst) in Copenhagen, Denmark.
In the artwork, Caspar David Friedrich captures his young likeness with meticulous attention to detail and emotional depth. The young man, presumably Friedrich, is depicted half-length in a frontal pose. His expression is contemplative, eyes gazing directly at the viewer as if inviting them into his introspective world. The delicate and skillful use of chalk emphasizes the texture of his skin and the soft folds of his clothing, giving the portrait a lifelike quality. The subtle shading around his face and head suggests an intimate light source, adding to the personal and serene atmosphere of the piece. Friedrich’s Romantic sensibilities are evident in the gentle yet evocative detailing, encapsulating the fervent spirit of the era.
