Artwork

Portrait of a Man

Portrait of a Man, by Hans Holbein the Younger, unspecified, 1527
Portrait of a Man, by Hans Holbein the Younger, unspecified, 1527

Portrait of a Man is an unspecified painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Hans Holbein the Younger. It dates from 1527 and is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst.

About this work

Overview

This portrait, painted by Hans Holbein the Younger in 1527, is a characteristic example of Northern Renaissance portraiture. It is a black-and-white depiction of a bearded man, rendered in precise detail.

Subject & Meaning

The subject is shown with a long beard and mustache, dressed in attire that includes a dark fur collar and a white cuff. His hands are positioned in a relaxed manner, with one resting on a chair arm and the other tucked into his robe.

Technique & Style

The painting employs strong contrasts of light and dark, a technique known as chiaroscuro, to draw attention to the subject's face. The plain background serves to further focus the viewer's attention on the sitter.

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.