The artwork entitled “Self portrait” was created by the illustrious artist Francisco Goya in 1783. This oil on canvas piece is a quintessential example of the Romanticism movement that marked that era. The artwork measures 86 by 60 centimeters and falls under the genre of self-portrait. Currently, it is housed at the Musée des Beaux-Arts d’Agen in Agen, France.
This self-portrait by Goya portrays the artist with a direct and introspective gaze, engaging the viewer as he appears mid-stroke with a paintbrush in his hand, a testament to his profession and passion. He is depicted against a murky, loosely defined background which throws the focus onto his figure, highlighting his features and the thoughtful expression on his face. The usage of light and shadow accentuates the contours of his face, imparting a sense of depth and dimension to the composition. Goya’s attire is of the period, and his posture and the suggested movement of his arm convey a moment captured in the act of creation—an intimate glimpse into the artist’s practice. The brushwork is fluid, suggestive of the spontaneity and emotional intensity characteristic of Romanticism. This self-portrait not only reflects Goya’s technical proficiency but also provides insight into his self-perception and the artistic identity he sought to convey.
