Self-Portrait at the Age of Nine 1928

Arshile Gorky’s 1928 “Self-Portrait at the Age of Nine” depicts the artist as a young boy with a solemn expression. Painted in a style reminiscent of early 20th century Expressionism, the work features bold brushstrokes and a muted color palette. While the portrait is not entirely accurate to Gorky’s physical appearance at the time, it speaks to the artist's early interest in self-representation and his exploration of personal identity. Gorky’s self-portrait, a poignant reminder of his artistic journey, captures the introspection of a young artist grappling with the complexities of identity.