The artwork entitled “Self Portrait” was created by the artist Jean Cocteau in the year 1939. It falls within the art movement known as Expressionism and is categorized as a self-portrait genre. The artwork reflects the expressive techniques commonly associated with this movement, encapsulating the artist’s inner feelings and psychological states through its execution.
The self-portrait by Jean Cocteau is characterized by its simplistic yet evocative line work. The drawing primarily consists of bold, confident lines that define the artist’s facial features with a stark clarity. There is a notable absence of color and detail which is typical of Cocteau’s graphic style, focusing instead on the form and contour to convey emotion and character. The facial expression is contemplative and somewhat intense, capturing Cocteau’s gaze directly engaging with the viewer with a penetrating quality.
Various inscriptions adorn the artwork, including what appears to be a dedication or acknowledgment on the upper left side. The artist’s signature and the year of creation are inscribed near the bottom right, establishing the authenticity and historical context of the piece. The overall composition balances spontaneity with control, exemplifying the aesthetic principles of Expressionism, where the subjective experience holds prominence over representational accuracy.