Artwork

Portrait of a Man

Portrait of a Man, by Barthel Beham, oil, 1529
Portrait of a Man, by Barthel Beham, oil, 1529

Portrait of a Man is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Barthel Beham. It dates from 1529 and is held in the collection of the Kunsthistorisches Museum.

About this work

Overview

Portrait of a Man is an oil painting created by Barthel Beham in 1529. It is housed at the Kunsthistorisches Museum.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a seated man at a wooden table, with a glass of wine, an onion, and written numbers nearby. His simple attire and the everyday objects suggest a straightforward, practical scene. The numbers may imply a connection to a mathematical or accounting activity.

Technique & Style

The subject is rendered with attention to detail, including the texture of his clothing and the objects on the table. The use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of depth and volume, with the subject standing out against a plain gray background.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Barthel Beham

Artist

Barthel Beham

Barthel Beham (1502–1540) was an artist, born in Nuremberg.