Hans von Marees (1837 – 1887) – Self-Portrait with Yellow Hat Alte und Neue Nationalgalerie (Berlin)

The composition presents a man in a self-portrait, positioned centrally within the frame. He is depicted from the chest upwards, seated and holding what appears to be a walking stick or cane across his lap. A straw hat with a wide brim sits atop his head, casting shadows on his face and contributing to an overall sense of relaxed informality. The man’s attire consists of a dark jacket over a light-colored shirt and vest, the collar of which is prominently displayed. His beard and mustache are full and neatly trimmed, adding to a cultivated appearance.
The artist has employed a muted color palette dominated by earthy tones – browns, greens, yellows – with subtle gradations in shading that suggest an interest in capturing natural light and texture. The background reveals a landscape viewed through what seems to be a window or opening; it features rolling hills, trees, and a distant building, rendered in a softened, almost impressionistic style. This backdrop is not sharply defined, but rather blends into the overall atmosphere of the work.
The man’s gaze is direct, yet contemplative, conveying an air of quiet introspection. The lighting emphasizes his facial features, particularly the eyes, which seem to hold a certain melancholy or seriousness. The hat and cane suggest a gentlemanly lifestyle, perhaps one associated with leisure and travel.
Subtleties in the painting hint at deeper meanings. The blurred background could symbolize a detachment from the immediate surroundings, suggesting an inward focus. The choice of attire – the casual jacket paired with a formal shirt – might indicate a desire to bridge formality and ease. The overall impression is one of a man comfortable in his own skin, yet burdened by some unspoken thought or feeling. There’s a sense of quiet dignity and perhaps a touch of world-weariness conveyed through the subjects expression and posture.