A 1926 gelatin silver print by El Lissitzky, 'Self-Portrait, Dessau' features two contrasting views of the artist, reflecting his innovative approach to photography and Constructivist principles.

This gelatin silver print, titled 'Self-Portrait, Dessau', was created in 1926 by the Russian artist El Lissitzky. Lissitzky, born Lazar Markovich Lissitzky, was a significant figure in the Russian avant-garde movement, particularly Constructivism. He worked across graphic design, typography, photography, and architecture. His work often explored abstraction and geometric forms, aiming to connect art with social purpose. He taught at the Vkhutemas, the Soviet state art school, and later at the Bauhaus in Germany. This self-portrait presents two views of the artist. On the left, a direct, engaging frontal view captures Lissitzky with a slight smile. To the right, a profile shot offers a contrasting perspective. Both images are sharply focused, highlighting the artist's features and conveying a sense of directness. The composition, with its juxtaposition of viewpoints, reflects Lissitzky's interest in innovative photographic techniques and his broader artistic exploration of space and perspective.