Who painted Self Portrait?

Self Portrait was painted by William Henry Hunt in 1825.

Where can I see Self Portrait?

Self Portrait is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Self Portrait?

Self Portrait is associated with American Folk Art.

Artwork

Self Portrait

William Henry Hunt , 1825

Self Portrait is an unspecified painting by the American Folk Art artist William Henry Hunt. It dates from 1825 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

This self-portrait, created in 1825 by English watercolourist William Henry Hunt, is a characteristic example of his work, now housed in the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait's subject is Hunt himself, depicted with a round face, curly hair, dark coat, and white necktie, against a plain light background. The emphasis on the face, through focused lighting, suggests a straightforward, introspective self-representation.

Technique & Style

Notable for its visible brushwork, the painting achieves a near three-dimensional quality on the subject's face. Hunt's technique also imparts a textured appearance to the skin, contrasting with the smoother, lightly brushed background.

History & Provenance

Commissioned in 1825 for the Royal Academy's annual exhibition, the portrait was later acquired by the Victoria and Albert Museum, where it remains part of the permanent collection.

Context

While Hunt is renowned for his detailed still lifes and genre scenes, particularly naturalistic bird's nest depictions (earning him the nickname 'Bird’s Nest' Hunt), this self-portrait showcases his skill in capturing human likeness within the constraints of watercolour.

Legacy

As a key figure in 19th-century English watercolour painting, Hunt's self-portrait contributes to the understanding of the era's artistic practices and the artist's personal style beyond his more celebrated themes.