The artwork titled “Self-portrait with spectacles” was created by Francisco Goya around 1801. As an oil painting on canvas, it measures 63 by 49 centimeters and belongs to the Romanticism movement. It is categorized as a self-portrait and is currently housed at the Musée Bonnat in Bayonne, France.
This self-portrait displays a perceptive representation of the artist, with a striking sense of realism and psychological depth, traits often associated with Goya’s work. The artist portrays himself wearing spectacles, which lends a certain intimacy to the artwork, as spectacles are a personal item not typically depicted in formal portraits of the time. Goya has rendered his features with a nuanced exploration of light and shadow, and the painting’s palette is relatively subdued, employing a dark background that accentuates the figure. His expression is contemplative and direct, engaging the viewer with a candid gaze that reflects the introspective nature of self-portraiture. The brushwork is loose and expressive, hinting at the artist’s state of mind as well as the evolving artistic trends of the era. The visible textures and the interplay of light on the surface of his clothing add to the painting’s immediacy and the vivid presence of the artist. Such a self-portrait not only illustrates Goya’s physical appearance but also invites contemplation on his identity as an artist and his place within the Romantic period.
