Vincent van Gogh
Paris, January-June 1887
Graphite, pen and dark brown ink on wove paper
Only two drawings depicting self-portraits by Vincent van Gogh are known, which is surprising for an artist who drew extensively. This work is the most elaborate of the two, containing studies ranging from quickly sketched individual features to a worked-up likeness in the centre. The drawing is not preparatory for a painting but a general exploration of Van Gogh’s features. The upper left-hand corner is missing and has been repaired. The lost section probably contained another depiction of Van Gogh’s face judging by the pencil lines depicting a beard below the repair.