“Self-Portrait with a Japanese Print” is an artwork created by Vincent van Gogh in 1887 in Paris, France. This oil on canvas painting belongs to the Post-Impressionism and Neo-Impressionism art movements and serves as a self-portrait of the artist. Currently, it is housed at the Kunstmuseum Basel in Basel, Switzerland.
In the artwork, Van Gogh presents himself with a strikingly vivid color palette, characterized by bold and dynamic brushstrokes that reflect the influence of Japanese art, which he greatly admired. The background is adorned with a Japanese print, providing a cultural context to the self-portrait. Van Gogh’s intense and contemplative gaze, along with the use of contrasting colors, underscores his emotional depth and complex personality. His red hair and beard stand out prominently against the patterned background, demonstrating his mastery in the use of color to express individuality and emotional state. The overall composition reveals a blend of Western and Eastern artistic traditions, manifesting Van Gogh’s innovative approach to self-portrayal.
