Artwork

Portrait of a Man

Portrait of a Man, by Hans Holbein the Younger, oil
Portrait of a Man, by Hans Holbein the Younger, oil

Portrait of a Man is an oil painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Hans Holbein the Younger. It is held in the collection of the Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp.

About this work

Overview

This oil painting, created by Hans Holbein the Younger around 1550, is a representative work of the Northern Renaissance style. It is a portrait of a man, identified as Richard Williams.

Subject & Meaning

The subject is depicted with a serious expression, wearing formal attire that includes a black hat and a white ruff around his neck. The dark background emphasizes his facial features.

Technique & Style

Holbein employed subtle shading to create a three-dimensional effect, particularly around the subject's jaw and forehead. The smooth brushstrokes and soft blending of colors contribute to the overall realism of the portrait.

History & Provenance

The painting is part of the collection at the Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp. Hans Holbein the Younger, a renowned portraitist of the 16th century, was a German painter and printmaker of Swiss descent.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Hans Holbein the Younger

Artist

Hans Holbein the Younger

Hans Holbein the Younger (UK: HOL-byne, US: HOHL-byne, HAWL-; German: Hans Holbein der Jüngere; c.