An exceptionally large and interesting drawing by this leader of the French 'realist' School. Portraits by other artists show that he parted his hair on the other side; the discrepancy is explained by the fact that Courbet drew his own head and saw it in a mirror.
More information
Title of artwork, date
Self-portrait, 1852
Date supported
1925
Medium and material
Charcoal
Dimensions
57 x 45 cm
Gifted by
Samuel Courtauld
Grant
200
Content note: This object record is part of our archive and has not been updated since it was first published. It may contain inaccurate information or outdated language. Please get in touch if you think this record should be amended.
Get a National Art Pass and explore British Museum
You'll see more art and your membership will help museums across the UK
National Art Pass offers available at British Museum
50% off exhibitions
Art Funded by you FAQs
Contact us
If you have a question about a work of art in our archive, please contact the Programmes team. We’ll be happy to answer your enquiry.