Self-Portrait Max Buri (1868-1915)

The portrait presents a man facing directly toward the viewer, dominating the composition with his presence. He is positioned centrally, filling much of the frame and commanding immediate attention. The gaze is intense, unwavering, creating a palpable connection with the observer. His expression appears somber, perhaps even melancholic; the downturned mouth and furrowed brow suggest introspection or quiet suffering. A thick mustache obscures part of his upper lip, contributing to an air of formality and seriousness.
The artist employed a palette dominated by muted greens, blues, and grays, lending a subdued atmosphere to the work. The background reveals a landscape – a body of water bordered by hills or mountains under a cloudy sky. This backdrop is rendered with broad brushstrokes, lacking precise detail, which serves to keep the focus firmly on the figure in the foreground. The landscape’s indistinctness suggests an emotional distance, perhaps reflecting the subjects internal state.
The man is dressed in dark clothing – a suit jacket and shirt – which further emphasizes his somber demeanor and reinforces a sense of formality. The texture of the fabric appears rough, painted with visible brushstrokes that add to the overall feeling of austerity.
Subtleties within the portrait hint at deeper meanings. The unusual color of the eyes – a striking blue against the muted tones – draws attention and could be interpreted as symbolizing clarity or perhaps an element of vulnerability. The placement of the signature in the lower right corner, relatively unobtrusive, suggests a degree of humility on the part of the artist.
The overall effect is one of quiet dignity tinged with sadness. It’s not merely a depiction of physical appearance; it conveys a sense of psychological depth and invites contemplation about the subjects inner life. The painting seems to explore themes of introspection, solitude, and perhaps even a subtle questioning of existence.