This book presents an uninterrupted sequence of 500 self-portraits, in chronological order from ancient Egypt to the present. The challenge of creating their own likeness has proved irresistible to artists, and included here are powerful and evocative works by many of the greatest painters and sculptors, including Durer, Rembrandt, Picasso and Andy Warhol.

Presented without commentary, these works speak for themselves a compelling collection for every student of art and human nature.

Portraits are an endless source of interest, responding as they do to the basic human impulse to look at faces and try to see into the character behind them. Self-portraits have the added fascination that comes from looking into the mirror and trying to study one's own face.