Vincent van Gogh’s self-portraits are among the most expressive and introspective works in art history.
Painted between 1886 and 1889, they not only document his artistic evolution but also serve as a visual diary of his emotional and psychological struggles.
Often unable to afford models, Van Gogh turned to himself as a subject, experimenting with color, brushwork, and symbolism to convey his inner turmoil, artistic ambitions, and shifting mental states.
His portraits range from somber and subdued to vibrant and intense, reflecting his journey from Paris to Arles and finally to the asylum in Saint-Rémy.
Each self-portrait offers a raw and intimate glimpse into his psyche, making them some of the most powerful self-representations in art.
Famous Van Gogh Self Portraits
1. Self-Portrait with Felt Hat (1887)
Location: Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam
Description: Van Gogh wears a dark felt hat and a heavy coat, standing against a blue background. His gaze is direct, his face framed by thick brushstrokes.
Symbolism: The dark felt hat represents maturity and introspection, while the contrast between warm and cool tones may reflect his inner conflict.
Technique: Pointillist-influenced dabs of paint create texture, and short, swirling brushstrokes give the background movement.
2. Self-Portrait (1889)
Location: Musée d’Orsay, Paris
Description: A striking portrait with swirling blue patterns behind him, likely painted during his time at the asylum in Saint-Rémy.
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Symbolism: The swirling background represents psychological turmoil, while his somber expression conveys a fragile mental state.
Technique: Expressive impasto brushwork creates a textured, almost sculptural effect. The use of cool blues contrasts sharply with the warm orange tones in his face.
3. Self-Portrait with Bandaged Ear (1889)
Location: Courtauld Gallery, London
Description: Van Gogh wears a green coat and fur hat, his head bandaged from the infamous self-inflicted injury.
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Symbolism: The bandage is a stark reminder of his suffering, while the Japanese prints in the background reflect his artistic influences.
Technique: Strong outlines and thick layers of paint emphasize emotional rawness. The color palette is cold, reinforcing the feeling of isolation.
4. Self-Portrait with Grey Felt Hat (1887)
Location: Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam
Description: Van Gogh wears a grey felt hat, his face painted with fine, contrasting strokes of color.
Symbolism: His eyes seem weary yet determined, symbolizing his ongoing artistic and personal struggles.
Technique: Inspired by Pointillism, he applies small, deliberate brushstrokes in various colors, blending them optically.
5. Self-Portrait with Straw Hat (1887)
Location: Detroit Institute of Arts, USA
Description: Van Gogh wears a bright yellow straw hat and a blue vest, standing against a vibrant background.
Symbolism: The hat and warm colors suggest a moment of optimism, possibly reflecting his admiration for the sunlight and warmth of Arles.
Technique: Thick, deliberate strokes create a tactile, sunlit effect, emphasizing color contrasts.
6. Self-Portrait Dedicated to Paul Gauguin (1888)
Location: Fogg Art Museum, Harvard University
Description: A stylized portrait with unnatural green tones in his face, created as a gift for Gauguin.
Symbolism: The unnatural colors and exaggerated lines are influenced by Japanese art, symbolizing Van Gogh’s desire to reinvent himself artistically.
Technique: Flat, broad strokes and an outlined effect emphasize Symbolist influences.
7. Self-Portrait as a Painter (1888)
Location: Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam
Description: Van Gogh sits before an easel, holding his palette and brushes, wearing a blue smock.
Symbolism: The painting portrays his identity as an artist, asserting his commitment to his craft despite personal struggles.
Technique: Short, deliberate brushstrokes and a muted color palette reflect a more disciplined approach.
8. Self-Portrait with Pipe and Bandaged Ear (1889)
Location: Private collection
Description: Similar to the Bandaged Ear portrait but with the addition of a smoking pipe.
Symbolism: The pipe may symbolize resilience or an attempt at self-soothing after his traumatic injury.
Technique: Thick brushstrokes create an intense texture, while the dark colors enhance the melancholic mood.
9. Self-Portrait with Dark Felt Hat (1886)
Location: Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam
Description: One of his earliest self-portraits, featuring a dark hat and a more traditional, muted color palette.
Symbolism: The somber tone reflects his struggles as an emerging artist in Paris.
Technique: Tighter, more academic brushwork compared to his later expressive style.
10. Self-Portrait with Blue Background (1889)
Location: Musée d’Orsay, Paris
Description: The portrait features a rich blue swirling background, with Van Gogh’s face painted in contrasting warm tones.
Symbolism: The blue swirls symbolize instability and emotional turbulence, while the sharp contrasts suggest inner conflict.
Technique: Heavy impasto and dynamic brushstrokes create movement and depth.
11. Self-Portrait with Palette (1889)
Location: National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
Description: Van Gogh holds his palette and brushes, staring directly at the viewer.
Symbolism: This is one of his final self-portraits, showing him as an artist despite his declining health.
Technique: Expressive, thick paint application with visible swirling strokes that emphasize emotional intensity.
12. Self-Portrait Without Beard (1889)
Location: Private collection
Description: A rare self-portrait where Van Gogh appears clean-shaven, with pale skin and a direct gaze.
Symbolism: Possibly a farewell portrait, as it was painted shortly before his death and given to his mother.
Technique: Softer, blended brushwork compared to his usual thick strokes, creating a more delicate effect.
13. Self-Portrait in a Grey Suit (1887)
Location: Musée Rodin, Paris
Description: Van Gogh wears a grey suit, his face serious and expressionless.
Symbolism: The grey suit may reflect his attempt to appear more conventional or professional.
Technique: More blended, delicate brushwork, showing his Parisian influences.