Self-Portrait (1924)

Lovis Corinth's "Self-Portrait" is a significant work created during the artist's prolific career, which spanned from the late 19th century into the early 20th century. Corinth was a prominent figure in the German Expressionist movement, known for his dynamic brushwork and vivid color palette. The painting exemplifies his ability to convey emotion and psychological depth through self-representation. Corinth often explored themes of identity and the human condition in his self-portraits, reflecting both personal and universal experiences. The exact date of creation for this particular self-portrait is not definitively recorded, but it is generally placed within the context of his later works, when he had fully developed his distinctive style. Corinth's self-portraits are characterized by their boldness and a sense of immediacy, often revealing the artist's introspective nature. This work contributes to the understanding of Corinth's artistic evolution and his role in the broader narrative of modern art in Germany.

Lovis Corinth's "Self-Portrait" is characterized by its dynamic brushwork and expressive use of color, typical of the artist's style. The composition features a frontal view of the artist, with a focus on the face, which is rendered with a combination of bold strokes and delicate details. The palette includes rich, deep hues, particularly in the skin tones, which contrast with the darker background, enhancing the figure's prominence. Corinth's application of gouache creates a textured surface, while the possible additions in oil contribute to the luminosity and depth of the colors. The artist's gaze is direct and engaging, inviting the viewer into a personal dialogue. The overall effect is one of vitality and emotional intensity, reflecting Corinth's mastery of self-representation. The heavy ivory wove paper provides a sturdy foundation that supports the vigorous application of the medium, further emphasizing the work's physicality.