Self-portrait I

The self-portrait is the work of Brașov artist Mișu Popp (1827–1892), an emblematic figure of academism, participant in the Revolution of 1848, and creator of a painted pantheon dedicated to significant figures in Romanian history. Throughout his life, the artist explored the art of self-portraiture, capturing his features and the penetrating expression of his brown eyes with remarkable realism and precision. This self-portrait, created around the age of 50, can be compared to the only known photograph of the painter, demonstrating the accuracy of his representation.

The portrait depicts him in a right semiprofile, showcasing exceptional skill in rendering details. The subtle furrowing of his thick eyebrows and the fine wrinkles around his eyes reveal the passage of time, while the expression in his gaze imbues his face with a note of gentleness. His short, light chestnut hair is complemented by a neatly groomed beard and mustache, highlighting his attention to detail. The artist is shown wearing a white shirt with a visible collar, over which he dons a jacket, adding a touch of sobriety to the portrait.