Self-portrait

"Self-portrait", a striking drawing from 1800, offers us a glimpse into the artist Friedrich Bury's likeness. Created with black chalk on beige paper, this piece, housed in The Royal Collection of Graphic Art, captures Bury from the chest up. Notice how he turns slightly to the left, his gaze meeting ours directly. The artist's features are rendered with delicate detail: short, wavy hair, expressive eyes, a prominent nose, and a closed mouth that hints at a sense of quiet contemplation. His attire, a high-collared shirt and jacket, speaks to the fashion of his time. The plain background further emphasizes Bury himself, drawing our attention to his features and expression.