Artwork
Autoportrait en saint Augustin
Autoportrait en saint Augustin is an oil painting by the Realist artist Jean Baptiste Frénet. It dates from 1858 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon.
About this work
Overview
Jean Baptiste Frénet's 'Autoportrait en saint Augustin' (1858) is an oil painting depicting the artist in the guise of Saint Augustine. Characterized by a contemplative ambiance, the work showcases Frénet's self-portraiture within a religious persona.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, dressed as Saint Augustine, wears distinctive attire: a tall white hat with a red tail and gold band, a long white beard, a brown sweater over a white collared shirt. His downward gaze and relaxed pose convey introspection, aligning with the saint's association with deep thought and spiritual reflection.
Technique & Style
Executed in oil paint, the painting features a blue sky with yellow clouds as its backdrop. Frénet's use of color and composition emphasizes the figure, with the subject's right hand resting on an unseen surface, drawing the viewer's focus to the contemplative expression.
History & Provenance
Created in 1858, 'Autoportrait en saint Augustin' is part of the collection at the Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon, where it remains on display.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Portrait of Jan Karol Chodkiewicz – Study
Portret de bărbat
Lord of Gruuthuse
Doge Andrea Gritti
Old villager
Schița portretului lui Tudor Vladimirescu
Schița portretului lui Tudor Vladimirescu
Godefroy Wendelin
Pierino del Vaga
Ein Bischof mit Mitra und Pluviale, Studie für den heiligen Leonzio
Selbstbildnis
Carton for the polychrome from St Mary's Church - console in the shape of a male head (portrait of T. Stryjeński)