The artwork “Self-Portrait with Striped Collar” is a masterful creation by Gustave Courbet, painted in 1854. This oil on canvas measures 37 by 46 centimeters and is an exemplar of the Realism art movement. Gustave Courbet, renowned for his unflinching approach to representing the truth, has chosen to capture his own likeness in this self-portrait. Housed in the Musée Fabre located in Montpellier, France, this work embodies the essence of the genre and the artist’s skill in rendering human expressions.
In the artwork, Courbet presents himself in profile, creating an air of contemplation. His face is illuminated against a muted, dark background, highlighting his features with a sharp contrast. The choice of a striped collar adds a touch of detail to the otherwise somber color palette. Courbet’s gaze is directed out of the canvas, inviting introspection. His hair and full beard are rendered with textured brushstrokes, emphasizing the naturalistic approach of Realism. The artist’s signature can be seen in the lower right corner, leaving a personal touch on this intimate self-examination.
