Artwork

Portrait of a standing man

Portrait of a standing man, by Frans Hals, oil, 1644
Portrait of a standing man, by Frans Hals, oil, 1644

Portrait of a standing man is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Frans Hals. It dates from 1644 and is held in the collection of the Johnny Van Haeften Gallery. This oil painting, created in 1644, is a representative work of the Dutch Golden Age.

About this work

Overview

This oil painting, created in 1644, is a representative work of the Dutch Golden Age. It is attributed to Frans Hals the Elder, a prominent painter active in Haarlem.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a formally dressed man standing upright, wearing a black hat and coat with a white collar, holding a feathered object. His neutral expression and attire convey a sense of dignity and restraint.

Technique & Style

The artist's use of chiaroscuro creates a strong contrast between light and dark, drawing attention to the subject and adding depth to the composition. The dark background serves to focus the viewer's attention on the figure.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Frans Hals

Artist

Frans Hals

Frans Hals the Elder (UK: , US: ; Dutch: ; c. 1582 – 26 August 1666) was a Dutch Golden Age painter. He lived and worked in Haarlem, a city in which the local authority of the day frowned on religious painting in places…