Self portrait by Matthieu Wiegman

Self portrait

Matthieu Wiegman · 1916

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“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.”

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.

DETAILS
Artist
Matthieu Wiegman
Date
1916
Location
Stedelijk Museum Alkmaar
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What to Notice

Four details hide in plain sight. Here’s where to look.

Self portrait
01

The direct, unwavering gaze of the artist.

02

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

03

The visible, energetic brushstrokes throughout the painting.

04

The dark, indistinct background that pushes the figure forward.

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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.

Read Wiegman’s full story
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