Seán Keating
, Irish, 1889-1977
Title
Self-PortraitDate1973
MediumOil on canvas
Dimensions
71.5 x 61.5 cm
Signedlower right: KEATING.
on verso: 1973/4
Credit LinePresented, the Estate of Liam C. Martin, 1999
Object numberNGI.4671
DescriptionThis striking self-portrait was commissioned by Liam C. Martin, a friend of the artist, in 1973, and completed one year later in Keating's studio in Rathfarmham. In the painting Keating looks rather severe, as if disturbed from his work. The brush he holds up, almost defiantly, replaces the brushes and palette, or easel that artists traditionally included in self-portraits to identify or emphasise their profession. Though Keating painted himself many times during his career, and in many different guises, he is best remembered for his west of Ireland scenes. Keating was both Professor of Painting at the National College of Art and Design (1936-1954) and President of the Royal Hibernian Academy (1948-1962).