Who painted Self-portrait?

Self-portrait was painted by Julian Maszyński in 1900.

Where can I see Self-portrait?

Self-portrait is held by National Museum in Warsaw.

What movement is Self-portrait?

Self-portrait is associated with Post-Impressionism.

Artwork

Self-portrait

Julian Maszyński , 1900

Self-portrait is an oil painting by the Post-Impressionist artist Julian Maszyński. It dates from 1900 and is held in the collection of the National Museum in Warsaw.

About this work

Overview

Julian Maszyński’s self‑portrait, executed in oil on canvas in 1900, presents the artist in a restrained half‑length format. The work is part of the collection of the National Museum in Warsaw, where it is displayed among other Polish fin de siècle pieces. Its composition centers on the sitter’s face and upper torso, set against a dark, unadorned background that eliminates external references.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait shows Maszyński himself, dressed in a dark brown, high‑collared suit with a crisp white shirt beneath.

The portrait shows Maszyński himself, dressed in a dark brown, high‑collared suit with a crisp white shirt beneath. His hair is neatly swept back, and a neatly trimmed mustache and beard frame a composed expression. The slight tilt of his head and the calm seriousness of his gaze suggest a measured self‑assessment, typical of artists asserting their professional identity at the turn of the century.

Technique & Style

Maszyński employs smooth, almost invisible brushwork to render the texture of skin and fabric, creating a polished surface that emphasizes the sitter’s dignity. The limited palette of browns, whites and deep shadows produces a subtle chiaroscuro effect, modeling the facial features and giving the figure a three‑dimensional presence despite the flat backdrop. The overall handling reflects the academic portrait tradition prevalent in late‑19th‑century Polish art.

History & Provenance

Painted in the year 1900, the self‑portrait entered the National Museum in Warsaw’s holdings during the early 20th century, though the precise acquisition details remain undocumented in public records. Its presence in the museum’s collection underscores Maszyński’s role within the Polish artistic community of his era, offering scholars a direct visual reference to the artist’s appearance and self‑presentation.