Selfportrait Charles Henri Joseph Leickert

The portrait presents a man in a formal attire, positioned against a dark, indistinct background that emphasizes his figure. He is depicted from the chest up, facing directly toward the viewer with a gaze that appears both intense and slightly melancholic. The lighting highlights his face and upper torso, creating a contrast between the illuminated areas and the surrounding shadows.
The man’s hair is styled in a manner characteristic of the mid-19th century, parted neatly to one side and falling across his forehead. A well-trimmed beard and mustache add to his dignified appearance. He wears a dark, double-breasted coat over a light blue shirt with a black bow tie – an ensemble indicative of a certain social standing and professional identity. The meticulous rendering of the fabric textures suggests attention to detail and a desire for realism.
The artist’s choice of a somber palette contributes to the overall mood of introspection and seriousness. The dark background serves not only as a backdrop but also seems to symbolize a sense of isolation or contemplation. His expression, while composed, hints at an underlying complexity; there is a subtle tension in his brow and a quiet sadness reflected in his eyes.
The directness of his gaze establishes a connection with the viewer, inviting scrutiny and perhaps even empathy. The signature visible in the lower right corner suggests a deliberate act of self-representation, a desire to be remembered and judged by posterity. This is not merely a likeness; it’s an assertion of identity and a carefully constructed image intended to convey something about the sitters character and status.