Now in the private collection of the international banking group, BNP Paribas S.A., this painting by the French artist Gustave Courbet is one of the most celebrated & insightful self-portraits in the Western Art world. Over the course of his career, Courbet painted many self-portraits but this one remained quietly hidden away in his studio, discovered only after his death. Hailed for being intensely personal, expressive & revealing, this painting shows the artist, young, dishevelled & on the verge of breaking down, staring wide-eyed in shock at the viewer. Starkly showcasing Courbet’s own experiences as a tortured young artist, this painting is deeply loved & admired by many creatives around the world who relate to the eternal struggle of finding success & recognition while staying true to their artistic vision.