1935–1936
Self-Portrait with a Cigarette
Oskar Kokoschka (1886–1980)
- Year
- 1935–1936
- Artist
- Oskar Kokoschka
- Medium
- Oil on canvas
- Movement
- Expressionism
Self-Portrait with a Cigarette is a painting created by Austrian artist Oskar Kokoschka between 1935 and 1936. In this intense and expressive work, Kokoschka depicts himself holding a cigarette, capturing both his inner turmoil and reflective nature. The piece offers a raw glimpse into the artist’s psyche during a time of personal and political upheaval in Europe.
In 1937, the painting was displayed in the infamous Nazi exhibition “Degenerate Art” (Entartete Kunst), which aimed to discredit modernist and avant-garde movements seen as threats to the regime’s ideals. Like many works featured in the show, it faced possible confiscation or destruction—but was fortunately recovered by the artist before it disappeared.
Frequently asked questions
Who painted Self-Portrait with a Cigarette?
This Self-Portrait with a Cigarette was painted by Oskar Kokoschka (1886–1980), the Austrian pioneer of expressionism.
Is this the same painting as Munch’s Self-Portrait with a Cigarette?
No. Edvard Munch painted a Self-Portrait with a Cigarette in 1895, now held at the National Museum in Oslo. The painting shown here is a different work, by Oskar Kokoschka.
When was Kokoschka’s Self-Portrait with a Cigarette painted?
Between 1935 and 1936, in the years of political upheaval that preceded the Second World War.
What does the painting show?
Kokoschka depicts himself holding a cigarette, his gaze turned upward, against a background of green and gold brushwork. The work captures both his inner turmoil and his reflective nature.
What is its connection to “Degenerate Art”?
In 1937 the painting was displayed in the Nazi exhibition “Degenerate Art” (Entartete Kunst), which sought to discredit modernist and avant-garde art.