Artwork

Selfportrait as a Jockey

Selfportrait as a Jockey, by William Orpen, oil, 1911
Selfportrait as a Jockey, by William Orpen, oil, 1911

Selfportrait as a Jockey is an oil painting by the Post-Impressionist artist William Orpen. It dates from 1911 and is held in the collection of the Nationalmuseum.

About this work

Overview

Selfportrait as a Jockey, painted in 1911 by Irish artist William Orpen, is an oil-on-canvas self-portrait depicting the artist dressed as a jockey against a cloudy sky.

Subject & Meaning

Orpen, known for portraying Edwardian elites, here explores self-representation in a less conventional role. The jockey attire and solemn expression may reflect the artist's introspection or a departure from his typical high-society subjects.

Technique & Style

The work exhibits post-impressionist tendencies. Orpen employs chiaroscuro to create depth, focusing attention on his face and body. The contrast between light and dark accents the jockey's somber demeanor.

History & Provenance

Created in 1911, the painting is part of the Nationalmuseum's collection. Orpen's dual role as a successful society portraitist and experimental self-portraitist is highlighted through this piece.

Context

Within the early 20th-century art landscape, Orpen's blend of traditional portraiture skills with post-impressionist innovation positions Selfportrait as a Jockey as a unique blend of modern and established artistic practices.

Richard Menzel Posing in Eighteenth-Century Costume
Richard Menzel Posing in Eighteenth-Century Costume, Adolph Menzel

Artist & collection

Portrait of William Orpen

Artist

William Orpen

Major Sir William Newenham Montague Orpen (27 November 1878 – 29 September 1931) was an Irish artist who mainly worked in London.

Nationalmuseum

Museum

Nationalmuseum

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Nationalmuseum open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Selfportrait as a Jockey?

Selfportrait as a Jockey was painted by William Orpen in 1911.

Where can I see Selfportrait as a Jockey?

Selfportrait as a Jockey is held by Nationalmuseum.

What movement is Selfportrait as a Jockey?

Selfportrait as a Jockey is associated with Post-Impressionism.