Artwork

Head of a Bearded Man

Head of a Bearded Man, by Jost Amman, ink, 1572
Head of a Bearded Man, by Jost Amman, ink, 1572

Head of a Bearded Man is an ink drawing by the Renaissance artist Jost Amman. It dates from 1572 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Head of a Bearded Man is a drawing by Jost Amman, executed in 1572 on blue prepared paper using brush and black ink with white wash.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a bearded man's head turned to the left, adorned with a hat and feather. His long, curly hair and beard have strands crossing his face, conveying a sense of informality.

Technique & Style

Amman employed black ink for outlines and details, white wash for highlights, and cross-hatching to achieve depth, texture, and shading, particularly in the subject's face and attire.

History & Provenance

Created in 1572, the work's provenance is not detailed here, focusing instead on its creation by Jost Amman during this period.

Context

This drawing aligns with the artistic practices of the Renaissance, characterized by detailed rendering and expressive use of media.

Legacy

As a product of its time, Head of a Bearded Man reflects Renaissance drawing techniques, though its specific influence or impact is not highlighted in available information.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Jost Amman

Artist

Jost Amman

Jost Amman (1573–1573) was an artist.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.