Studies of self-portrait 1911

Here we see Ferdinand Hodler's "Studies of Self-Portrait" rendered in oil on canvas. Hodler presents us not with a singular, definitive self-image, but rather with a dual perspective, capturing the artist in contemplative profile. The composition is striking in its use of repetition and layering. Hodler employs a limited palette, dominated by earthy tones, which imbue the work with a sense of introspection. The visible brushstrokes and the somewhat unfinished quality of the piece invite us into the artist's process, revealing the act of self-examination. The positioning of the two portraits, one above the other, encourages a comparative reading. It suggests a dialogue between different facets of the self, challenging the notion of a fixed identity. Hodler's strategic use of form and composition serves not only to depict his likeness, but also to explore the complexities of human consciousness.