Self-Portrait, Reflection 2004

This 2004 self-portrait by Lucian Freud is a striking example of his signature style. The thick impasto, a technique that involves applying paint in heavy layers, creates a textured surface that emphasizes the artist's weathered features. Known for his unflinchingly realistic depictions of the human figure, Freud captures the weight of age and the passage of time in this intimate portrayal. The heavy brushstrokes and close-up view create a sense of immediacy and a visceral connection with the viewer, bringing us closer to the artist's physical and emotional reality.