Self-Portrait

My name is Feely T. Heart, and I will be your guide today through one of our paintings: nn Before us is "Self-Portrait," a captivating work painted by Ferdinand Georg Waldmüller sometime between 1830 and 1835. This piece, part of the Foundation E.G. Bührle Collection, offers a glimpse into both the artist's appearance and his artistic skill. nn The painting is relatively small, measuring just 28 by 36 centimeters, yet it commands attention. Waldmüller presents himself to the viewer head-on, filling the canvas with his presence. He is dressed formally in a dark jacket, a splash of color provided by a red band at his collar. His thick, wavy hair and carefully groomed mustache and goatee speak to the fashion of his time. nn Waldmüller's technique is striking. He employs loose, expressive brushstrokes, particularly in the rendering of his jacket and hair, creating a sense of life and movement. The warm color palette, dominated by browns and reds, adds to the painting's intimacy. Notice how the light source from the left throws a subtle shadow across his face, emphasizing its contours and adding to the sense of depth. nn This self-portrait is more than just a likeness; it's a statement. Waldmüller's direct gaze and serious expression suggest a man confident in his abilities, both as an artist and an individual. This work provides us with a fascinating window into the world of a 19th-century artist, his self-perception, and his artistic prowess.