“Self-Portrait I” by Edvard Munch is a seminal work of art executed between 1895 and 1896 through the medium of lithography on paper. Embodying the Expressionist art movement, this self-portrait measures 58.3 x 43 cm and is part of the collection at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City, New York, United States. As a self-portrait, the artwork delves into the introspective representation of the artist himself.
The artwork presents a striking and evocative depiction of Edvard Munch. Centered and framed in stark contrast, the artist’s face is the focal point, rendered with bold outlines and minimal detail that capture a somber and contemplative expression. The high contrast between light and dark areas, a characteristic of lithographic technique, creates a dramatic and intense visual impact. The simplification of form, representative of the Expressionist movement’s inclination toward emotional expression over realistic representation, emphasizes the psychological over the physical likeness of the artist. The sparse use of detail directs the viewer’s gaze to Munch’s eyes, which appear to look directly at the observer, enhancing the personal and introspective nature of the self-portrait.
