Vajda Lajos Felemelt Karú Önarckép 1925 Szén, Papír, 315x250mm 1925

In this 1925 charcoal on paper self-portrait titled 'Felemelt Karú Önarckép'—Self-Portrait with Raised Arm—Vajda Lajos captures a striking image of himself as a young man. Born in Hungary in 1908, Vajda lived through a period of immense social and political upheaval, including the aftermath of World War I and the rise of various ideological movements. This drawing is a compelling example of how personal identity is shaped by historical context. The raised arm could be interpreted as a gesture of defiance or assertion, reflecting the youthful energy and perhaps the anxieties of a world in transition. The intensity in Vajda's gaze invites a powerful emotional connection, offering a glimpse into the artist's inner world as he navigates the complexities of identity during a tumultuous era. Vajda’s life was tragically cut short during World War II, making this self-portrait not only a reflection of his youth but also a poignant reminder of the personal losses inflicted by historical events.