Two Studies for Self-Portrait 1977

Francis Bacon's "Two Studies for Self-Portrait" (1977) exemplifies his signature style of distorted figuration, characterized by bold strokes and a haunting atmosphere. The two panels depict Bacon's own visage in a fragmented and abstracted manner, highlighting his fascination with the human form's vulnerability and the passage of time. The intense, almost grotesque depiction evokes a sense of psychological unease, a hallmark of Bacon's oeuvre, and has resonated with viewers for decades. This work is a prime example of figurative expressionism, a genre that emerged in the early 20th century and emphasizes emotional expression over realistic representation.