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Davies studied at Cardiff College of Art. In 1947, he started teaching at South Devon College of Art, remaining a full-time teacher until he retired. His figurative work became increasingly abstracted as time went on. Davies wrote to Borchard in 1959 that his self portrait ‘was done when I was 24... I was actually in the army at the time.’ In this picture, the head is both delicately and robustly modelled. The huge hazel eyes, looking obliquely away, are drawn with childlike forthrightness. Features are exaggerated and distorted: the generous lips, the large sweep of forehead and the thick, black, glossy hair, the angular chin. The mesmerising eyes above all communicate a sense of mystery. The strong, gentle face has something fierce, even desperate in its expression.
The vivid red collar and blue tie-knot, along with the abundant head of hair, suggest a man who enjoyed his appearance.
Title
Self Portrait
Date
1947
Medium
oil on canvas
Measurements
H 41 x W 30 cm
Accession number
PCF25
Acquisition method
acquired by Ruth Borchard as part of the original collection
Work type
Painting