Self-Portrait
Artist: Ai Weiwei (b. 1957)
Date of creation: 2016
Technique: LEGO bricks mounted on aluminum
Dimensions: 76.2 x 76.5 cm (30 x 30 ⅛ in.)
Edition: Limited edition of 10 + 2 artist’s proofs
Description: In this striking work titled Self-Portrait, Ai Weiwei revisits the art of portraiture using an unexpected material: LEGO bricks. At the crossroads of pop art, digital pixelation, and social critique, this work questions identity, reproduction, and the value of images in the contemporary era.
Composed of four color variations of his self-portrait, the piece evokes Warhol’s visual language while asserting Ai Weiwei’s own conceptual approach. The choice of LEGO, an industrial and playful material, deliberately challenges traditional art conventions, making the work both accessible, subversive, and emblematic of the artist.
That same use of Lego blocks to explore identity and mass reproduction defines Single Panel Portrait of Ai Weiwei (2014), a pixelated portrait from a rare edition of 40 with provenance from Haines Gallery, San Francisco. A more monumental, Warhol-inflected counterpart appears in Self-Portrait (2016), composed of four color variations from an extremely limited edition of 10 + 2 artist's proofs — both available now at Lynart Gallery.
Shipping & Delivery:
✔ Worldwide shipping from France
✔ Professional packaging with insurance
✔ Tracking number included for secure delivery, Work delivered with certificate of authenticity
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FAQ
Is this an original Ai Weiwei edition?
Yes. Self-Portrait is an original edition created by Ai Weiwei in 2016 using LEGO bricks mounted on aluminum.
What is the edition size?
The work comes from a limited edition of 10, with an additional 2 artist’s proofs, making it extremely rare.
Is the work signed?
As with most of Ai Weiwei’s editioned LEGO pieces, the work is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity confirming authorship, edition number, and legitimacy.
What are the dimensions?
The artwork measures 76.2 × 76.5 cm (30 × 30 ⅛ in.).
What material is used?
The piece is constructed entirely of LEGO bricks mounted on aluminum, a signature material choice in Ai Weiwei’s exploration of reproduction, mass culture, and political symbolism.
Why LEGO?
Ai Weiwei uses LEGO to question the boundaries between high art and industrial production, echoing themes of identity, censorship, digital imagery, and pop culture.
What makes this work significant?
Its four-color pop-art structure evokes Warhol while retaining Ai Weiwei’s conceptual depth, making this edition a powerful example of his politically charged yet playful practice.
Is this a desirable collector’s item?
Absolutely. LEGO works by Ai Weiwei are highly sought after due to their rarity, cultural relevance, and museum-level impact.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes. We offer secure worldwide shipping from France, including professional packaging, full insurance, and tracking.
Drawn to this piece? Julian Opie's collection may move you in the same way.
