Artwork
Autorretrato
Autorretrato is an oil painting by Benedito Calixto. It dates from 1923 and is held in the collection of the São Paulo Museum of Art.
About this work
Overview
Created in 1923, this oil on canvas is a self‑portrait by Brazilian painter Benedito Calixto de Jesus. The work is part of the permanent collection of the São Paulo Museum of Art and presents the artist at work, his gaze meeting the viewer’s eye. The composition centers on his face, rendered with careful realism, set against a muted dark‑brown backdrop.
Subject & Meaning
Calixto portrays himself in a white shirt, spectacles, and a mustache, holding a palette and brushes in his left hand. The direct stare and solemn expression convey a contemplative stance, emphasizing the artist’s identity and dedication to his craft. The inclusion of his tools underscores the painting’s function as both a likeness and a statement of professional purpose.
Technique & Style
Executed in a realistic manner, the portrait displays meticulous attention to facial features, texture of skin, and the sheen of the shirt. The oil medium allows subtle modeling of light and shadow, giving depth to the eyes and the reflective surfaces of the glasses. The dark, uniform background isolates the figure, enhancing the three‑dimensional effect.
History & Provenance
Benedito Calixto, known for figure paintings and coastal scenes, typically received commissions from private patrons rather than governmental bodies. This self‑portrait entered the São Paulo Museum of Art’s holdings through acquisition in the mid‑20th century, reflecting the museum’s effort to represent early 20th‑century Brazilian art and the artist’s personal oeuvre.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Benedito Calixto de Jesus (14 October 1853 – 31 May 1927) was a Brazilian painter.
