About this work

Vincent van Gogh painted 36 self-portraits. This was one of his last. Made at the asylum of Saint-Paul-de-Mausole in Saint-Rémy, where the artist was recovering from a severe breakdown, it is intense in every way. The swirling brushstrokes around his head are dynamic, the blues and violets of his smock are electric, and his narrowed gaze is unwavering. The artist’s bright orange hair and rust-colored beard accentuate his sallow skin and add to his gaunt appearance. Still working despite his illness, Van Gogh keeps a tight grip on his brushes and palette.