Self-portrait. 1881 Valentin Serov (1865-1911)

Here we observe a drawing depicting a mans head and shoulders in a three-quarter view. The subject is positioned slightly off-center, creating a sense of informality. His gaze is directed towards the viewer, establishing a direct connection that invites scrutiny. A faint smile plays on his lips, suggesting an underlying composure or perhaps a touch of self-awareness.
The artist employed a technique characterized by loose, expressive lines to render the subjects features and hair. The hatching is particularly evident in delineating the contours of the face and neck, contributing to a textural quality that avoids rigid definition. This approach lends a sense of immediacy and spontaneity to the work. The rendering of the hair appears somewhat stylized, with individual strands suggested rather than meticulously detailed.
The tonal range is limited, primarily consisting of shades of gray achieved through varying line density. This monochromatic palette contributes to an overall mood of introspection and restraint. The background is largely absent, drawing attention solely to the figures presence.
A handwritten inscription appears in the lower right corner, bearing a date (1881) and what seems to be a signature. Its placement suggests a personal record or annotation rather than a formal dedication. This detail reinforces the impression of a private study or preliminary sketch.
Subtly, the drawing conveys an air of quiet confidence. The subject’s posture and expression suggest a man comfortable in his own skin, yet not entirely devoid of vulnerability. The simplicity of the composition and the directness of the gaze imply a desire for honest self-representation, eschewing elaborate artifice in favor of a more straightforward portrayal.