The “Self Portrait” by Piet Mondrian, dated 1918, is an oil on canvas artwork measuring 88 by 71 cm, showcasing the post-impressionistic era and is currently housed at the Gemeentemuseum den Haag in The Hague, Netherlands. This self-portrait is an expression of Mondrian’s identity as seen through his own eyes during that period.
The painting depicts the half-length figure of Mondrian, turned slightly to one side, creating a sense of depth and engagement with the viewer. His face shows a thoughtful expression with distinct sharp features, highlighted by the prominent brushstrokes which add texture and a certain intensity to his gaze. Mondrian is dressed in a dark suit with a bow tie, positioned against a background that seems to consist of geometric shapes and blocks, hinting at the transitional phase in his artistic journey towards abstraction. The color palette is relatively muted, containing earthy tones with subtle variances that add to the depth and three-dimensionality of the image. Emphasis is placed on the play of light and shadow, contributing to the profound and reflective mood of the piece.
