A self-portrait by Richard Gerstl, rendered in an expressionistic style with bold brushstrokes and a psychologically charged atmosphere. The artist stands nude against a swirling blue background, his gaze direct and confrontational.

Richard Gerstl (1883-1908) was an Austrian painter known for his expressionistic portraits and unconventional approach to art. His brief but intense career placed him as a significant, if somewhat isolated, figure in the development of early 20th-century Expressionism. Gerstl's work often explored psychological themes and emotional intensity, setting him apart from his contemporaries. He tragically died by suicide at the age of 25. This self-portrait shows the artist standing against a dark blue background. The figure is nude except for a white cloth draped around the waist. The brushwork is loose and expressive, with visible strokes that add to the painting's raw emotional quality. The blue background is not uniform; it appears to swirl and undulate, creating a sense of unease. The artist's gaze is direct, almost confrontational, adding to the painting's psychological impact. The colour palette is limited, focusing on the contrast between the cool blue and the warm tones of the figure's skin.