Artwork
Self-portrait with Cap
Self-portrait with Cap is an oil painting by the Spanish Baroque Tenebrist artist Francisco Gimeno Arasa. It dates from 1917 and is held in the collection of the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya. Created in 1917, this oil painting presents the artist himself in a solitary pose.
About this work
Overview
Created in 1917, this oil painting presents the artist himself in a solitary pose. The work belongs to the Spanish Baroque tenebrist tradition, employing pronounced contrasts of light and shadow to model the figure against a muted, earthy backdrop. The composition centers on a bearded man in a dark cap and light jacket, his gaze directed leftward, conveying a contemplative mood.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait captures the artist’s own likeness, a practice he pursued throughout his career. The solemn expression and distant look suggest introspection, perhaps reflecting personal or artistic concerns of the period. The simple attire and unadorned setting focus attention on the individual’s character rather than external narrative.
Technique & Style
Executed with thick, impasto brushstrokes, the surface reveals a tactile quality that emphasizes texture over smooth finish. Strong chiaroscuro defines the facial features, while the warm, earthy ground tone unifies the composition. The visible strokes and layered paint convey a sense of immediacy, aligning with tenebrist emphasis on dramatic lighting and material presence.
History & Provenance
The painting entered the collection of the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya, where it remains on display. Its acquisition reflects the museum’s commitment to representing early 20th‑century Spanish artists and preserving works that illustrate the continuation of Baroque tenebrism into modern practice.
Artist & collection
Artist
Francesc Gimeno i Arasa (4 February 1858 – 22 November 1927) was a Spanish painter and graphic artist best known for his landscapes, city scenes and self-portraits.
