Artwork

Portrait of Augusto Fratelli

Portrait of Augusto Fratelli, by Arnold Böcklin, oil, 1864
Portrait of Augusto Fratelli, by Arnold Böcklin, oil, 1864

Portrait of Augusto Fratelli is an oil painting by the Biedermeier artist Arnold Böcklin. It dates from 1864 and is held in the collection of the Hamburger Kunsthalle.

About this work

Overview

Portrait of Augusto Fratelli is an 1864 oil painting by Arnold Böcklin, housed at the Hamburger Kunsthalle. The work depicts a solemn, dark-haired man with a mustache, dressed in formal attire set against a muted brown background.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, Augusto Fratelli, is portrayed with a serious, introspective expression, engaging the viewer directly. His neatly styled hair and well-groomed mustache suggest attention to personal appearance.

Technique & Style

Böcklin employs chiaroscuro to create depth and volume, contrasting light and dark tones to enhance the somber mood. This technique adds complexity to the overall composition.

History & Provenance

Created in 1864, the painting has been part of the Hamburger Kunsthalle's collection, providing a glimpse into Böcklin's mid-19th-century work.

Context

While specific contextual details about the subject's relationship to the artist are not provided, the painting reflects the formal portrait conventions of its time, with a focus on capturing the sitter's character.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Arnold Böcklin

Artist

Arnold Böcklin

Arnold Böcklin was a Swiss Symbolist painter. His five versions of the Isle of the Dead inspired works by several late Romantic composers.

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