Self portrait

Matthieu Wiegman, 1916

LOCATIONStedelijk Museum Alkmaar

Stop and observe Matthieu Wiegman's intense self-portrait from 1916. His direct gaze and the visible brushwork draw you into a moment of raw, unidealized introspection, offering a window into the artist's early self-perception.

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ABOUT THIS WORK

In this self-portrait from 1916, Matthieu Wiegman captures himself with a direct, almost confrontational gaze. His face, rendered in a palette of warm ochres and deep browns, emerges from a loosely painted background, suggesting an intimate, unidealized moment. The artist appears to be in his late twenties, a period often marked by self-reflection and the forging of artistic identity. There's a palpable sense of internal focus, as if we've caught him in the act of observation, perhaps even observing himself in a mirror. The brushwork, visible and energetic, contributes to the immediacy of the portrait, making it feel less like a formal sitting and more like a spontaneous, personal record. This work offers a glimpse into Wiegman's early career, showcasing a raw honesty in his approach to depicting himself.

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What to Notice

1

The direct, unwavering gaze of the artist.

2

The warm, earthy tones used for his skin and hair.

3

The visible, energetic brushstrokes throughout the painting.

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Audio Deep Dive

Stop and observe Matthieu Wiegman's intense self-portrait from 1916. His direct gaze and the visible brushwork draw you into a moment of raw, unidealized intro…

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THE ARTIST
Matthieu Wiegman 1886–1971 · Kingdom of the Netherlands

Matthieu Wiegman, a Dutch artist, captured a range of subjects from self-portraits to religious scenes throughout his prolific career.

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