Self-Portrait n.d.

This self-portrait by George Cruikshank was made using pen and ink, and watercolor on paper. The relatively simple materials speak to the artist’s profession as a caricaturist, producing satirical prints that responded to the social and political issues of his day. The directness and immediacy of his style would have been especially suited to this purpose. It is a quick study, not a highly labored artwork in the traditional sense, and could have been done at any moment, anywhere. The use of pen and ink allowed for precise linework and fine detail, while the watercolor washes added depth and dimension to the image. The slightly unfinished quality of the self-portrait, with its minimal background, gives us a sense of the artist's own perception and personality. It's not highly idealized, and quite economical in its means of production. Cruikshank’s self-portrait reminds us that the materials and methods artists choose are as important as the images they create.