Artwork

Portrait of a Man

Portrait of a Man, by Arent de Gelder, oil, 1695
Portrait of a Man, by Arent de Gelder, oil, 1695

Portrait of a Man is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Arent de Gelder. It dates from 1695 and is held in the collection of the Detroit Institute of Arts.

About this work

Overview

Portrait of a Man is a 1695 oil painting by Arent de Gelder, a Dutch artist known for being Rembrandt's last pupil. The work is characteristic of the Dutch Golden Age, a period of significant artistic production.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a man in a red robe and brown cloak, holding a staff. His neutral expression and contemplative demeanor are emphasized by the muted brown background. The subject's attire and pose suggest a figure of quiet authority or introspection.

Technique & Style

De Gelder's style in Portrait of a Man reflects his training under Rembrandt, with a focus on capturing the subtleties of the subject's expression and attire. The use of oil paint allows for rich, nuanced color and texture, particularly in the rendering of the subject's clothing.

History & Provenance

The painting is now held in the collection of the Detroit Institute of Arts. Created in 1695, it represents de Gelder's continued work in the late style of Rembrandt well into the 18th century.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Arent de Gelder

Artist

Arent de Gelder

Aert de Gelder (Dutch: ; October 26, 1645 – August 27, 1727) was a Dutch painter, the only Dutch artist to paint in the tradition of Rembrandt's late style into the 18th century.