Self-Portrait (Portrait de l'artiste)
Painting on canvas • Vincent van Gogh
Style & Movement
Post-Impressionism
Medium & Technique
Oil on canvas; impasto technique with rhythmic, linear brushstrokes and expressive use of color.
Creation Period
September 1889
Dimensions & Format
65 cm x 54 cm (25.6 in x 21.3 in); Portrait format
Subject Description
A three-quarter view self-portrait of the artist against a swirling, turbulent blue and turquoise background. The subject appears gaunt and intense, with orange hair and beard contrasting against cool background tones. The composition uses undulating lines to create a sense of psychological restlessness and movement.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Excellent; professionally conserved and maintained within a museum climate-controlled environment.
Estimated Market Value
Priceless; estimated market value exceeds $150,000,000 based on the sale of Portrait of Dr. Gachet and other major works.
Auction Estimate
$100,000,000 - $200,000,000+ (Theoretical)
Provenance History
Originally given by the artist to Dr. Paul Gachet; later passed through private collections including Paul Cassirer; acquired by the Musee du Louvre, Paris (Jeu de Paume) in 1947; currently in the collection of the Musee d'Orsay.
Art Historical Significance
One of Van Gogh's most iconic and final self-portraits, painted during his time at the Saint-Paul-de-Mausole asylum in Saint-Remy-de-Provence. It is a masterpiece of psychological depth, representing the artist's struggle with mental health and his mastery of rhythmic movement.
Notable Features
Rhythmic, hallucinatory swirling background patterns that mirror the brushwork of 'The Starry Night'; intense contrast between the warm orange beard and the cool blue palette; heavy impasto application visible in the face and background.
Condition Issues
Minor stable craquelure consistent with age; some slight yellowing of old varnish (historically treated/cleaned); no significant contemporary damage.
Conservation Recommendations
Maintain in a strictly controlled environment (20°C, 50% humidity); low UV light exposure (below 50 lux); periodic inspection by specialized textile/canvas conservators.