*** About the Self-Portrait with Swirling Blue Background: Vincent van Gogh created this iconic self-portrait in the late stages of his tumultuous life, specifically during his voluntary stay at the Saint-Paul-de-Mausole asylum in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. Here, amidst periods of illness that confined him to his quarters, he explored the depths of his psychological and emotional landscapes through his art. Created a year before his death, this portrayal not only reflects his acute self-awareness but also a defiance against his encroaching despair. The swirling patterns in the background, reminiscent of his famous "Starry Night," symbolize the chaotic yet brilliantly creative mind. Currently, the painting is housed in the Musée d'Orsay in Paris, where it continues to draw admiration and intrigue, providing a deeply personal glimpse into the soul of one of the most revered figures in art history.