Selbstbildnis Anton Faistauer (1918)

On display is the compelling "Self-Portrait" painted by Austrian artist Anton Faistauer in 1918. This artwork provides a revealing glimpse into the artist’s introspective gaze and internal world during a transformative period in history. In this self-portrait, Faistauer is depicted in mid-thought, his expression somber yet poised, reflecting perhaps the personal and collective challenges of the era.Faistauer employs a robust, expressive brushwork that vividly captures the textures of his clothing and the ambient surroundings. The earthy tones that dominate the painting suggest a mood of seriousness and perhaps melancholy, characteristic of many portraits created during or immediately after the Great War. Notable is the use of striking greens and reds, which breathe an intensity into the composition, highlighting the artist’s skill in employing color to convey emotion and depth.The artist’s attire, an elegantly simple shirt with a crisply knotted scarf, adds a personal touch that suggests his identity not just as an artist, but as a gentleman of his time. The paintbrushes held gently in his hands are emblematic of his profession and passion, signaling his dedication to his craft.Anton Faistauer’s self-portrait is not only a personal testimony but also an artistic statement, encapsulating the style and emotional timbre of an era. It invites viewers to delve deeper into the life and times of an artist who, through his masterful strokes, continues to communicate across time.