“Self Portrait with Beret,” created in 1972 by the artist Frank Mason, is an exemplary piece of the Classical Realism art movement. The artwork, which falls under the genre of a portrait, showcases the artist’s adept ability to capture the essence of traditional realistic portraiture with a contemporary touch.
In the artwork, Frank Mason depicts himself wearing a black beret and a red coat, underpinned by a neutral backdrop. His intense gaze is directed towards the viewer, while his right hand, draped in shadow, rests over his chest creating a sense of depth and dimension. The use of light and shadow effectively highlights the contours of his face and the textures of his clothing, emphasizing both the facial expression and the fabric’s rich details. The palette, featuring muted earth tones in the background contrasted with the vibrant red of the coat, draws attention to the artist’s mastery of color and technique. The composition as a whole reflects Mason’s commitment to the principles of Classical Realism, capturing not only his likeness but also an introspective narrative.
