Edward Hopper’s “Self-Portrait,” an artwork executed between 1903 and 1906, manifests the essence of New Realism through its oil on canvas medium. Measuring 25 1/16 x 20 3/8 inches, the self-portrait genre piece graces the collection of the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York. This work exemplifies the early artistry and introspective glance of an artist who would later become renowned for his unique depiction of American life.
The artwork features a half-length depiction of the artist, with a stern and direct gaze that seems to convey a deep sense of introspection and self-awareness. Hopper appears in formal attire with a dark jacket and a white shirt, starkly contrasted against a dark, nondescript background that fades into shadow. The play of light and shade on his face highlights his facial features, with particular emphasis on the determined set of his jaw and the contemplative look in his eyes. There is a palpable intensity to his gaze, which coupled with the realism of the painting technique, allows a glimpse into Hopper’s identity and perhaps his state of mind during this stage of his career. The precision of the brushwork and the meticulous rendering of his likeness showcase Hopper’s technical skill and attention to detail, traits that have come to characterize his more mature works.
