Lot number 2518 - Auction 155
SELBSTPORTRAIT

HANS VON MARÉES (ATTRIBUTED) 1837 Elberfeld - 1887 Rome SELF-PORTRAIT Oil on canvas. 48 × 37.5 cm (framed 58 × 48 cm). With partial retouching. Framed. At the centre of this portrait is the depiction of the complex emotional state of an ageing man. The sitter's gaze appears weary and melancholic: swollen eyelids and slightly moist sclera convey a sense of inner tension and concentrated self-observation-qualities frequently associated with self-portraiture, which often carries intimate, almost confessional undertones. This psychological focus is convincingly reinforced by the stylistic characteristics of the work, which evoke associations with Rembrandt's late self-portraits. The dark, largely undifferentiated background, the restrained, almost monochrome palette, and the dark clothing-interrupted only by the striking accent of a white collar, rendered with a nervous, free brushstroke-serve to intensify the viewer's focus on the face. The flesh tones are composed of complex greenish and reddish hues, enhancing the impression of physical and spiritual fatigue. The high forehead and the characteristic dark head covering complete the self-contained and introspective appearance. Overall, this is an expressive work in which profound psychological characterisation is combined with a conscious engagement with the traditions of old master painting. It is well documented that Hans von Marées studied the work of Rembrandt intensively, and scholarly research has often described his early self-portraits as being strongly imbued with a Rembrandtesque spirit-evident in their subdued palette, dramatic lighting, and melancholic mood. The striking resemblance of the depicted figure to Hans von Marées himself allows the assumption that this painting may represent a late self-portrait by the artist. Provenance: Private collection.