Autorretrat 1920 21 Pere Daura

The portrait presents a figure viewed in profile, turned slightly towards the viewer. The subjects face is rendered with a somber expression; the eyes appear heavy and downcast, contributing to a sense of melancholy or introspection. A prominent brow ridge casts shadows over the eyes, further emphasizing this mood. The mouth is subtly downturned, suggesting a quiet sadness or resignation.
The artist employed a limited palette dominated by muted earth tones – browns, grays, and ochres – with touches of blue in the clothing. This restricted color range reinforces the overall feeling of restraint and seriousness. Brushstrokes are visible and somewhat loose, contributing to a sense of immediacy and emotional rawness. The application of paint is not entirely smooth; theres a textural quality that suggests an unfinished or deliberately unrefined aesthetic.
The figure’s clothing appears simple and functional – a high-collared jacket with a dark tie. This attire contributes to the impression of austerity and perhaps even hardship. A thick, tightly wound cap covers the head, obscuring much of the hair and adding to the sense of confinement or introspection.
Behind the subject, a pale, indistinct shape resembling a crescent moon is visible. Its placement in the upper right corner introduces an element of ambiguity; it could be interpreted as a symbol of hope, cyclical time, or perhaps even a subtle reference to dreams or the subconscious. The background itself lacks detail and appears almost washed out, directing focus entirely onto the figure’s face and posture.
The composition is tightly cropped, eliminating any sense of surrounding environment. This close framing intensifies the feeling of isolation and draws attention to the subjects internal state. Overall, the work conveys a profound sense of introspection and quiet suffering, suggesting an exploration of personal struggles or existential concerns.