Self-Portrait in Hat and Coat (1913-15)

Here, Edvard Munch is contemplating himself with an intense and slightly uncomfortable gaze. His outfit indicates either that he has just come back home and decided to paint a self-portrait, or that he is on his way out… Maybe someone is waiting in vain to meet the famous artist, who never turned up. 

Some of Munch’s self-portraits are funny and light hearted, while others are self-mocking and melancholy. Here, it’s the self-mocking Munch, who doesn’t look entirely happy with what he sees reflected in the mirror. Dressed in his hat and coat, Munch is clearly on his way somewhere, and he seems to be asking himself he question: Where does the way ahead lead?