Self-portrait in Green

As one of the leading portraitists in the early decades of 20th century India, Trindade had a strong understanding of the emotional profile of his sitter’s and proficiency over physical resemblance and composition. Therefore, it is not a coincidence that the artist’s self-portrait is a genuine reflection of his attitude and character.
Trindade’s depiction is certainly Western in style. A portrait of European formality with his finely tailored suit, stand-up collar, silk tie and layers of shirt, vest and jacket, adorned with a touch of elegance conveyed by a gold watch chain and necklace. His tousled hair and the pipe add a natural, more relaxed look to the formal composition. Ultimately, in this portrait, Trindade asserts himself as a fit and successful man of his age and circumstance.
References: Shihandi, Marcella, et al, António Xavier Trindade: An Indian Painter from Portuguese Goa (exhibition catalogue), Georgia Museum of Art, University of Georgia, 1996; Gracias, Fátima, Faces of Colonial India: The Work of Goan Artist António Xavier Trindade (1870-1935), Panjim, Goa, Fundação Oriente, 2014.