Artwork

John Poines

John Poines, by Conrad Martin Metz, 1792
John Poines, by Conrad Martin Metz, 1792

John Poines is a print by the Romanticist artist Conrad Martin Metz. It dates from 1792 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Conrad Martin Metz created the portrait 'John Poines' in 1792. The work is currently part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait depicts a man in side profile, with his face slightly angled towards the viewer. His attire includes a dark, low-pulled hat and a visible ruffled collar under his jacket. The subject's identity is explicitly stated as 'John Poines' at the top of the work.

Technique & Style

Metz employed precise yet soft lines to capture the subtle contours of the subject's face, notably the jaw and cheek. The work is based on a drawing by Hans Holbein, indicating Metz's adherence to or experimentation with an earlier artistic style. The use of chiaroscuro techniques enhances depth through the interplay of light and shadow.

History & Provenance

Created in 1792 by Conrad Martin Metz, 'John Poines' is now housed at The Cleveland Museum of Art. The direct provenance history prior to its current ownership is not detailed here.

Context

The piece reflects Metz's engagement with historical artistic practices, as evidenced by its basis in a Holbein drawing. This suggests a potential interest in reviving or paying homage to earlier Renaissance portrait techniques during the late 18th century.

Legacy

The legacy of 'John Poines' is not extensively outlined in the provided information, though its presence in a notable museum collection implies a certain level of enduring artistic or historical value.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Conrad Martin Metz

Artist

Conrad Martin Metz

Conrad Martin Metz (1749–1827) was a German artist, born in Bonn.

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