Artwork

Self-Portrait

Self-Portrait, by William Unger, ink, 1880
Self-Portrait, by William Unger, ink, 1880

Self-Portrait is an ink print by the Impressionist artist William Unger. It dates from 1880 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Self-Portrait is an etching on laid paper created by William Unger around 1880.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a bearded man wearing a wide-brimmed hat and turned-up collar, with his hands resting in his lap. The subject's features are rendered in a rough, textured manner, conveying a sense of movement and informality.

Technique & Style

The etching technique used by Unger produces a grainy, detailed image with numerous tiny marks on the paper, giving the face a sense of vitality. This style was characteristic of late 19th-century printmaking, often used to capture candid, unposed moments.

Artist & collection

Portrait of William Unger

Artist

William Unger

William Unger (1875–1885) was an artist.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.