“Self-portrait, yawning” is an intriguing artwork created by Joseph Ducreux in 1783. The self-portrait is fashioned using oil on canvas, and it adeptly blends elements of the Rococo and Neoclassicism art movements. Measuring 114.3 by 88.9 cm, the painting falls within the genres of self-portrait and tronie, a type of work that focuses on exaggerated facial expressions. The artwork is currently housed at the J. Paul Getty Museum located in Los Angeles, California, United States.
The artwork features an exceptionally animated self-depiction of the artist. Ducreux appears mid-yawn, capturing a candid and unguarded moment seldom seen in the portraiture of his era. His mouth is agape, and his eyes are squeezed shut, evoking a sense of movement and spontaneity. He wears a red coat with wide lapels and a cream waistcoat underneath, with the folds and fabric rendered in meticulous detail. The background is subdued, with a dark, neutral tone that contrasts sharply with the figure and his vibrant attire. The unique pose and facial expression combined with the high level of realism show Ducreux’s skill in capturing human expression and contribute to the painting’s enduring fascination.