The artwork “Self-portrait” by Gustave Caillebotte is an oil on canvas painting dating from approximately 1875 to 1878. As an exemplary piece within the Impressionism art movement, the self-portrait measures 64 x 48 cm and currently resides in a private collection. The genre of the painting is a self-portrait, showcasing the artist’s own likeness as perceived and rendered through his unique perspective.
The artwork captures the artist with a penetrating gaze and a slight hint of sternness or introspection on his visage. Caillebotte has painted himself against a backdrop of what appears to be a lush garden or park, characterized by Impressionist brushstrokes that suggest the greenery and flora rather than detailing it with precision. The use of light and shadow on his face and clothing demonstrates the Impressionist fascination with the effects of natural light and the immediacy of visual sensation. His attire is modest, suggesting the everyday rather than the grand, in line with many Impressionist works that focused on contemporary life. The brushwork is loose and visible, which is typical of the Impressionism movement, and the color palette is naturalistic with a sense of vibrance in the natural setting behind the figure. This self-portrait not only represents Caillebotte’s physical appearance but also reflects the artistic conventions and philosophies of his time.
