Selvportræt 1906

Niels Larsen Stevns made this self-portrait in graphite on paper sometime between 1880 and 1940. The artist used a simple graphite pencil to capture his likeness on a small, gridded piece of paper, likely from a notebook. Graphite, with its varying degrees of hardness, allows for a range of tonal values, evident in the subtle shading and linework. The artist's hand is quite visible here in the quick, gestural marks that define his features. The use of graphite and paper speaks to the accessibility of art-making. These are not precious materials, but rather, everyday items that facilitate spontaneous expression. This directness and simplicity challenges traditional hierarchies between fine art and more humble forms of creative practice, and offers a glimpse into the artist's working method. The social context here is crucial: the ease with which Stevns could produce this self-portrait, and the lack of any precious material, underscores a democratic approach to art. It’s a reminder that creativity is not confined to the elite, but can be found in the simplest of means.