DEGAS, Edgar
(b. 1834, Paris, d. 1917, Paris)

Self-Portrait

1857-58
Oil on paper, mounted on canvas, 26 x 19 cm
The Clark Art Institute, Williamstown

Degas made nearly forty self-portraits between 1854 and 1864. During this period, he traveled extensively in Italy, studying Old Master paintings and developing his own style. The artist approached self-portraits as a platform for experimentation and most remained in his studio until his death.

In this image, Degas presents himself in a striking hat, white painting smock, and orange cravat. The delicate modeling of the face, much of which is in shadow, contrasts with the unpainted area in the bottom left corner.




© Web Gallery of Art, created by Emil Krén and Daniel Marx.