The artwork entitled “Self-portrait,” created by Ernst Ludwig Kirchner circa 1925, is executed in chalk. This piece, measuring 51 by 36 centimeters, belongs to the Expressionist art movement and falls within the genre of the self-portrait.
In the artwork, Kirchner presents a minimalist but evocative representation of himself. The use of chalk on paper showcases his characteristic linear style, with sharp, angular lines that define the facial features and clothing. The background elements, including what appears to be an abstract representation of a vase and a bowl, add a contextual ambience to the portrait, while the focused expression on the subject’s face captures a moment of introspection. The predominance of contour lines over shading emphasizes the expressiveness typical of Kirchner’s work, giving a direct, emotional presence to the self-portrait.