Artwork
Self Portrait
Self Portrait is an oil painting by the American Impressionist artist William Morris Hunt. It is held in the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts Boston.
About this work
Overview
This oil painting, dated to 1890, presents a self-portrait of William Morris Hunt, despite the artist's death in 1879, indicating a likely posthumous attribution error. The work depicts Hunt with a bald head, long white beard, and dressed in a dark, high-collared coat, set against a plain black background.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, William Morris Hunt (1824-1879), is portrayed in a contemplative pose, with hands tucked under his arms. The image reflects his later years, emphasizing age and introspection through the stark contrast of his face against the dark background.
Technique & Style
The painting exhibits prominent impasto techniques, characterized by thick, textured brushstrokes, notably in the beard and coat. This method imparts a rough, sculptural quality to the work, highlighting the artist's expressive handling of oil paint.
History & Provenance
Originally attributed to 1890, despite Hunt's 1879 passing, the painting's actual creation date may precede the artist's death. It is part of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston's collection.
Context
Hunt's training under Jean-François Millet at the Barbizon artists’ colony in Paris influenced his style. As a leading Boston artist, he worked across mediums (portrait, landscape, lithography, sculpture), with this self-portrait showcasing his oil painting prowess.
Legacy
As a founder of a U.S. artists’ colony inspired by Barbizon, Hunt's legacy extends beyond his artwork to his role in shaping American artistic communities and practices.
Artist & collection
Artist
William Morris Hunt (March 31, 1824 – September 8, 1879) was an American painter.
