The artwork, titled “Before the mirror,” was created by Carl Larsson in the year 1900 in Sweden. The artwork belongs to the Art Nouveau (Modern) movement and is a self-portrait, showcasing the artist’s distinctive style and personal expression.
The artwork depicts an individual in a long, richly colored coat, standing with one hand on their hip and the other on a vertical surface, possibly a door or frame. The figure looks confidently into the distance, embodying a sense of poise and self-assuredness. Behind the figure is an ornate white chair and a backdrop adorned with delicate, flowing floral designs typical of the Art Nouveau style. The warm, earthy tones of the background complement the subject’s attire, emphasizing the harmonious and elegant composition that Carl Larsson is renowned for. The inscription and signature in the upper left corner further authenticate and personalize this intimate self-portrait.