Self Portrait
| Support Type: | Mixed Support |
| Paint Type: | Oil Paint |
| Current Location: | Chelyabinsk State Art Museum |
| Location History: | The portrait was purchased by the State Procurement Commission of the Ministry of Culture of the USSR in 1951 from a private individual and later acquired by Chelyabinsk State Art Museum. Initially it was called "The Portrait of an Unknown Man" and the painter was not known. With research the work was attributed to Dmitry Levitzky and identified as a self portrait. |
This self portrait feels calm, serious and deeply introspective. Levitsky's direct gaze creates a sense of connection with the viewer, while the dark background keeps attention focused on his face and expression. The careful use of light highlights his features and clothing without making the portrait feel overly decorative. I understand this artwork as a quiet statement of the artist's identity and confidence at the height of his career. Rather than presenting himself through grand surroundings, Levitsky allows his face and expression to communicate his personality. I find the simplicity particularly effective because it makes the portrait feel personal and sincere. Overall, the painting reflects both the formal qualities of eighteenth century portraiture and the artist's ability to convey psychological depth through subtle expressions and controlled lighting.