Self-Portrait 1878

This self-portrait was painted by Francesco Hayez, in oil on canvas. The composition is dominated by the artist's head and beard against a dark, nearly black background, creating a sense of intimacy and introspection. Hayez skillfully uses light to model his face, drawing our attention to his brow and the sharp angles of his nose. The brushstrokes are loose, but they delineate the contours of his face and beard. The texture of the beard is particularly striking, composed of layered whites and greys that create a palpable sense of depth. The darkness that surrounds him functions as a void, isolating Hayez within the frame, and perhaps represents a moment of self-reflection. This portrait doesn't just show the artist's likeness; it destabilizes the traditional portrait, inviting us to think about aging, memory, and the artist's own gaze.