1937. Oil On Canvas, 61.0 x 51.0 cm. Arts Council Collection.
§ 1Catalogue data
- 61.0 x 51.0 cm
This Artwork Is Under Copyright Protection
The artwork displayed on this page is protected by copyright law, which means we cannot legally create or sell an identical reproduction. This protection is enforced under international agreements such as the Berne Convention and by national laws, including those outlined by the U.S. Copyright Law - Title 17.
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Read more§ 2Abstract
Collectible Description
Vibrant red tones dominate this striking 1937 self-portrait by David Bomberg, capturing bold color and depth; discover this masterpiece today.
Artist Biography
David Bomberg (1890-1957): From Cubist beginnings to expressive landscapes, explore the journey of this influential British painter & 'Whitechapel Boy'.
§ 3Commentary
The Intensity of Self: David Bomberg's Portraiture
To stand before a self-portrait by David Bomberg is to encounter not merely an image, but a profound confrontation with the artist’s own gaze. This 1937 work, titled Self Portrait (David), pulses with an almost visceral energy. The subject matter—the artist himself—is rendered with a striking immediacy that pulls the viewer into the intimate space of creation. Bomberg, a key figure among the 'Whitechapel Boys,' channeled the restless spirit of early 20th-century London onto his canvas. Here, the self is presented not as a polished ideal, but as a study in raw, vibrant existence.
A Symphony in Red and Shadow
Technically, the painting commands attention through its audacious use of color. The background, an overwhelming field of deep, saturated red, acts less like a backdrop and more like an emotional atmosphere—a curtain drawn around the figure. This bold chromatic choice immediately establishes a dramatic tension that permeates every inch of the composition. Against this fiery expanse, the man’s face emerges, illuminated by a masterful interplay of light and shadow. The artist has enveloped his form in what appears to be a rich red robe or garment, creating a powerful echo between the subject's attire and the surrounding void. This deliberate repetition of color unifies the piece while simultaneously heightening the contrast that defines the portrait’s drama.
Historical Echoes and Artistic Lineage
Bomberg’s career was marked by an absorption of major artistic movements, from the structured lessons learned under Walter Sickert to the revolutionary currents of Cubism. This Self Portrait stands as a testament to his mature style—a place where academic training meets raw emotional outpouring. While some of his contemporaries explored abstraction or narrative scenes, Bomberg often returned to the figure, grounding his avant-garde explorations in palpable human presence. The painting feels both deeply rooted in the tradition of portraiture and startlingly modern in its chromatic intensity, reflecting a pivotal moment in British art history.
Emotional Resonance for the Modern Collector
For those who collect art not just for beauty but for narrative weight, this piece offers deep contemplation. The bold color scheme ensures that it functions as a powerful focal point in any interior space, lending an air of sophisticated drama. It speaks to themes of identity, visibility, and the intense act of self-examination. Owning a reproduction of this work allows one to bring home a piece charged with such palpable artistic struggle and vibrant life force. It is art that does not whisper; it resonates, demanding that you pause, look closer, and engage with the compelling spirit captured by David Bomberg.
Questions & Answers
How do medium and movement combine in "Self Portrait (David)"?
In "Self Portrait (David)", the oil on canvas technique meets the Modernism movement.
Where can I see a preview of "Self Portrait (David)"?
A preview of "Self Portrait (David)" by David Bomberg is available on the artwork's Preview page.
How much light do the colors of "Self Portrait (David)" appear to reflect?
"Self Portrait (David)" by David Bomberg has a dark luminance. Luminance describes how much light the colors appear to reflect.
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For artworks or reproductions larger than 105 cm (approximately 41 inches) on any side, the frame will be shipped as a kit, disassembled. This method ensures safe delivery and prevents damage during transport.
