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Self Portrait with a Mask
Self Portrait with a Mask

Self Portrait with a Mask

Artist (American, 1936 - 1998)
Date1960
Culturewoman artist, queer artist
MaterialsOil on canvas
DimensionsH. 33 1/4 in × W. 29 1/4 in, H. 84.5 cm × W. 74.3 cm
Credit LineGift of the Estate of Bernice Bing
Object number2024.67
ClassificationsPainting
On View
Not on view
More Information
This rare self-portrait reveals Bing’s approach to figurative painting. In this work, she depicts herself wearing a white mask that recalls the Japanese theater tradition Noh, a form of performance art based on stories of supernatural creatures becoming human. The mask gives us clues as both a cover and a shield, embodying a sense of vulnerability, protection, and uncertainty.