Artwork
Portrait of a young Man

Portrait of a young Man is a tempera painting by the Early Renaissance artist Domenico Ghirlandaio. It dates from 1489 and is held in the collection of the Ashmolean Museum.
About this work
Overview
Painted in 1489 using tempera, *Portrait of a Young Man* is an early Renaissance portrait attributed to Domenico Ghirlandaio, a prominent Florentine artist of his generation.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, a youthful figure with dark, curly hair, dressed in a red tunic and cap with a black collar, conveys an air of wealth. His neutral expression and direct gaze engage the viewer, while the landscape background adds depth. The attire and hairstyle imply a wealthy, possibly noble, subject.
Technique & Style
Ghirlandaio's characteristic precision and attention to detail are evident in the portrait. The use of tempera contributes to the work's textured, layered appearance, enhancing the sense of realism.
History & Provenance
Originally created in Ghirlandaio's prolific Florentine workshop, which trained many apprentices, the painting is now part of the Ashmolean Museum's collection.
Artist & collection
Artist
Domenico di Tommaso Curradi di Doffo Bigordi (2 June 1448 – 11 January 1494), professionally known as Domenico Ghirlandaio (also spelt as Ghirlandajo), was an Italian Renaissance painter born in Florence.



















