“Head of a Man – Study of a Drawing by Van Gogh,” created by Francis Bacon in 1959, is an expressionist portrait rendered in oil on canvas. The dimensions of the artwork are 66 x 61 cm, and it is currently part of a private collection.
The artwork presents an intense and evocative study of a man’s head, characterized by dramatic brushstrokes and vivid colors, reflecting the emotive power of Expressionism. The portrayal is heavily textured, with swirling patterns of reds, greens, and oranges, contributing to a sense of distortion and psychological depth. The subject’s features are exaggerated and abstracted, emphasizing the raw and visceral nature of Bacon’s interpretation. The influence of Vincent van Gogh’s style is evident, yet Bacon’s unique vision imbues the piece with a distinct, unsettling energy. The dark background contrasts sharply with the figure, further highlighting the intensity and dynamism of the portrait.
