Who painted Self-portrait?

Self-portrait was painted by Antoni Caba in 1889.

Where can I see Self-portrait?

Self-portrait is held by Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya.

What movement is Self-portrait?

Self-portrait is associated with Impressionism.

Can I buy a print of Self-portrait?

Museum-quality prints of Self-portrait are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Self-portrait

Antoni Caba , 1889

Self-portrait is an oil painting by the Impressionist artist Antoni Caba. It dates from 1889 and is held in the collection of the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya.

About this work

Overview

Antoni Caba’s self‑portrait, executed in oil in 1889, presents the artist as a middle‑aged man with dark hair and a beard. He is dressed in a dark jacket over a white collared shirt, set against a muted brown backdrop. The composition is straightforward, with the sitter’s gaze meeting the viewer directly.

Subject & Meaning

The work functions as a conventional portrait, offering a personal study of Caba’s own appearance. The neutral expression and direct eye contact suggest a calm, self‑assured presence, while the restrained palette emphasizes the figure rather than any narrative context.

Technique & Style

Although Caba is often linked to realistic portraiture, the painting bears traces of Impressionist influence through its visible brushwork and textured surface. The handling of light and shadow hints at chiaroscuro principles, creating modest modeling of the face within the limited tonal range.

History & Provenance

Created toward the end of the 19th century, the portrait entered the collection of the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya, where it remains part of the museum’s holdings of Spanish art from the period.

Context

Caba worked during a time when Spanish painters were engaging with broader European trends, including Impressionism. This self‑portrait reflects his participation in those currents while maintaining his commitment to accurate, lifelike representation.