Grossberg only depicted himself as the subject of a painting once: in this Self-Portrait from 1928. Considered lost since 1945, it was rediscovered a few years ago. Additionally, only three drawings exist in which the painter captured himself.
Cut off below the chest, Grossberg faces the viewer head-on, with a concentrated, straight gaze. He holds a long brush in his right hand, which corresponds in colour to his red tie and identifies him as a painter. However, rather than depicting himself in a studio or in front of an easel, he chooses motifs for the background that have always held artistic interest for him. To his right stands a large machine: a massive steam hammer. To his left is a stylised landscape with cubic white buildings that can be interpreted as an industrial landscape.
Grossberg is clearly referencing Albrecht Dürer's 'Selbstbildnis im Pelzrock' (Self-Portrait in a Fur Coat) from 1500, one of the most famous self-portraits, which also shows the painter facing forward. What makes this painting special is that Dürer presents himself with absolute self-confidence, using a style of representation common to images of Christ.
The 'Selbstbildnis' (Self-Portrait) was created in 1928 at the height of Grossberg's career.
Further Media
- Location & Dating
- 1928
- Material & Technique
- Öl auf Holz
- Dimensions
- 70,1 x 60 cm
- Museum
- Privatsammlung Deutschland
- Inventory number
- X26.014