Self-Portrait 1887

This is a self-portrait by Vincent van Gogh, who was born in 1853 and died in 1890. It's currently located at the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam. Van Gogh painted numerous self-portraits throughout his career, each offering a glimpse into his evolving mental state and artistic explorations. Living in a period marked by significant social and cultural shifts, his work departed from traditional representations, embracing instead a subjective expression of emotion. The intensity in his gaze and the vibrant, almost turbulent brushstrokes, reflect his inner turmoil. His red beard stands out against the dark blue backdrop. These elements combine to create a powerful sense of unease and introspection. As Van Gogh wrote in a letter to his brother Theo, "It is good to love many things, for therein lies the true strength, and whosoever loves much performs much, and can accomplish much, and what is done in love is well done." Ultimately, this self-portrait offers a raw and intimate portrayal of an artist grappling with his own identity and place in a rapidly changing world.