The artwork “Self-portrait” by Paul Cezanne, dated 1875, exemplifies the Impressionist movement. This oil on canvas piece measures 64 x 53 cm and belongs to the genre of self-portraiture. Currently, the artwork is housed in the esteemed Musée d’Orsay located in Paris, France.
In this self-portrait, Cezanne presents a highly personal and introspective view. The work is rendered in the loose brushstrokes characteristic of the Impressionist period, yet it also anticipates the structured form of Cezanne’s later works, signaling his transitional style. His facial expression is solemn and contemplative, with a certain intensity in his gaze that suggests a man deeply engaged with his inner life. The backdrop appears nondescript, allowing the focus to remain fully on the subject—the artist himself. The color palette consists of somber and earthy tones, punctuated with warmer hues in the complexion and touches of color that enliven the composition.
Paul Cezanne’s approach to portraiture defied the norms of his time, as he sought to capture more than mere likeness; he aimed to convey the psychological depth and the presence of the sitter. This artwork stands as a testament to Cezanne’s introspection and his quest to convey the emotional and psychological complexities through the medium of painting.
