The artwork titled “Self-portrait” by Ivan Shishkin, created in 1854, is a notable piece from the Realism art movement. As a self-portrait, it encapsulates the artist’s introspective view of himself during this period.
In this self-portrait, Shishkin employs meticulous pencil work to render his facial features and attire with realistic detail. The artwork showcases his intense gaze, capturing the essence of his character with precision. Attired in a workman-like outfit with suspenders and a simple cap, the artist presents himself grounded in his craft. The shading and texture contribute to the realistic portrayal, emphasizing the depth and contours of his face, and his slightly untamed hair enhances the authenticity of the piece. The overall composition reflects the Realism movement’s focus on depicting subjects with unembellished truthfulness.