Two Studies for a Self-Portrait (1970) by Francis Bacon

Two Studies for a Self-Portrait - Francis Bacon - 1970

Artwork Information

TitleTwo Studies for a Self-Portrait
ArtistFrancis Bacon
Date1970
Art MovementExpressionism

About Two Studies for a Self-Portrait

The artwork, titled “Two Studies for a Self-Portrait,” was created by Francis Bacon in 1970. It belongs to the Expressionism art movement and falls under the genre of sketch and study.

The artwork comprises two images depicted side-by-side against a muted lavender background. Each portrait displays the face of an individual captured at different angles—the left portrayal shows a frontal view, while the right side exhibits a three-quarter profile. The brushstrokes are vigorous and textured, displaying Bacon’s characteristic use of distortion and abstraction in his self-portraits. Swaths of vibrant colors, such as reds, whites, and blues, juxtapose with the underlying flesh tones, giving the faces an almost sculptural quality. The intense application of paint and the blending of colors add a sense of movement and emotional depth, which are hallmarks of Expressionism. The overall effect is a haunting and compelling exploration of identity and self-perception.

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