In Self-Portrait with Upraised Arm, Gustave Courbet presents himself with an upraised arm, suggesting a sense of strength and defiance. The colors are rich and earthy, with deep browns and greens dominating the palette. Courbet's expression is intense, and he gazes directly at the viewer, creating a connection.

The background is dark and somewhat undefined, which emphasizes the figure in the foreground. This painting is executed in oil on canvas, a medium that allows for rich texture and depth. The brushwork is visible, showcasing Courbet's technique of layering paint to achieve a sense of realism. The dimensions are approximately 65 x 81 cm, making it a medium-sized portrait.

The use of light and shadow adds to the three-dimensionality of the figure. Gustave Courbet was a leading figure in the Realism movement, which sought to depict everyday life without romanticization. This self-portrait, created in the 1850s, reflects his belief in portraying the truth of human experience. An interesting fact about this work is that it was painted during a time when Courbet was challenging traditional artistic conventions, asserting the importance of individual expression.

His bold approach in this piece exemplifies his commitment to realism and self-representation.