The Timeless Allure of Self-Portraits

Capsule is excited to present a stunning array of self-portraits in our American & European Art sale on September 26th. Self-portraits have long been a compelling element of the art world. Whether through the use of symbolism, setting, reflections of cultural values, or the psychological draw for collectors, these works offer a unique window into the minds of their creators. From Philip Evergood’s Through the Fog, which suggests an emotional or artistic journey, to Max Ginsburg’s Self Portrait, capturing the essence of urban life and artistic isolation, self-portraits continue to resonate with both artists and buyers alike. Self-portraits, historically, have been more than simple depictions of their creators — they are historical documents capturing the artist’s personal journey within a larger cultural framework. For collectors, this deep historical resonance only enhances the appeal of self-portraits, making them not just works of art but also time capsules of identity, culture, and personal expression.

The symbolic use of setting in self-portraits showcases how they allow artists to reflect their environment, whether that environment is the physical world around them or the psychological space they inhabit. In comparing Evergood’s fog-laden atmosphere to Ginsburg’s bustling subway, we see how artists employ visual language to represent their individual struggles, whether emotional, creative, or existential. Max Ginsburg’s Self Portrait places the artist squarely within the gritty, fast-paced environment of New York’s subway system. This urban setting reflects the chaos and anonymity of city life while also emphasizing the solitude and isolation that often accompany artistic creation. The subway's bustling yet indifferent backdrop contrasts with the introspective act of painting, suggesting that while the artist is physically part of the urban landscape, he remains mentally distant — focused on his own creative world. 

Arbit Blatas’ Self Portrait offers a striking example of the historical significance of self-portraits, particularly in the context of 20th-century European art. Self-portraits have long served as a method for artists to assert their identity, engage with artistic movements, and reflect their time's cultural and political realities. Born in Lithuania and later working in Paris, Blatas was deeply influenced by the artistic and political movements of his era, including the rise of Modernism and the impact of the two World Wars. Historically, artists have often used self-portraits to document not only their personal evolution but also their response to the changing world around them. In Blatas’ case, his work is a personal statement of resilience and adaptation in a rapidly transforming Europe and fleeing to the United States.

Margaret Stark’s Self Portrait offers a contemplative glimpse into the artist’s inner world, using a blend of realism and subtle abstraction to communicate more than just her physical appearance. Like many artists who engage with self-portraiture, Stark creates a work that serves as a personal reflection and a broader statement on the artist's role. Her portrait conveys a sense of quiet intensity, with her direct gaze suggesting self-awareness, introspection, and perhaps even vulnerability. Historically, self-portraits like Stark’s have allowed female artists to assert their identity in a male-dominated art world. Throughout the art history canon, women were often the subjects of portraits but rarely received recognition as creators. By painting herself, Stark takes control of her image and narrative, contributing to the long tradition of women artists who have used self-portraiture to challenge societal norms and assert their presence in the art world.

The capacity for self-portraits to reflect personal and universal themes makes them particularly attractive to collectors. They tap into the fundamental human desire for self-reflection and self-exploration, inviting viewers to connect with the artist's personal narrative while also seeing themselves in the work. Buyers are often drawn to self-portraits because they serve as mirrors — not just of the artist's identity but of the viewer’s own introspections and emotions. The psychological appeal, combined with the rich historical evolution of self-portraits, ensures their continued relevance and value in the art market. Explore more self-portraits from the Fairleigh Dickinson University Collection in our American & European Art sale on Thursday, September 26th at 11:00 AM.  

American & European Art

Preview Hours

Tuesday, September 24th, 11-3PM

Wednesday, September 25th, 11-3PM

and by appointment

Pre-bidding for American & European Art is available now. Live bidding begins September 26th at 11:00 AM EST.