“Self Portrait in Profile” is a collage created by Marcel Duchamp in 1958. This work, categorized under the Expressionism art movement, is a self-portrait measuring 14.3 x 12.5 cm. Currently part of a private collection, the artwork exemplifies the introspective and conceptual nature characteristic of Duchamp’s oeuvre.
The artwork features a silhouette of Duchamp’s profile against a stark, contrasting background. The profile is rendered in a dark, opaque shade which sharply stands out against the lighter background, emphasizing the contours of his face. This minimalist approach focuses attention on the shape and form of the subject. The use of collage as a medium in this work is subtle yet effective in creating a compelling visual impact. The overall composition, marked by its simplicity and depth, reflects the meditative quality often associated with self-portraits. The dark silhouette juxtaposed with the emptiness of the surrounding space evokes a sense of contemplation and solitude, aligning with Duchamp’s innovative and avant-garde artistic vision.
