Main content

Ensor's eerie self portrait

James Ensor's "Self Portrait with Masks" is about social alienation. He is surrounded by mocking crowds, and uses carnival symbols as an allegory of evil. The painting also makes reference to Rembrandt's later self portraits. He, like Ensor, felt neglected and alone in later life

Release date:

Duration:

4 minutes

More clips from One Hundred Great Paintings