Artwork
Portrait of a Man
Portrait of a Man is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Willem de Keyser. It dates from 1650 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum. This oil-on-canvas portrait, created around 1650, depicts an older man with distinctive features.
About this work
Overview
This oil-on-canvas portrait, created around 1650, depicts an older man with distinctive features. The painting is attributed to Willem de Keyser, a Flemish artist known for his work in various mediums.
Subject & Meaning
The subject is an older man with a white beard and curly hair, dressed in a dark blue coat and white collar. The initials 'HB' carved into a wooden ledge may refer to the sitter's identity. The artist's use of chiaroscuro emphasizes the subject's face, drawing attention to his features.
Technique & Style
The painting showcases de Keyser's skill with oil paint and his use of chiaroscuro, a technique that creates depth through contrasting light and dark areas. The dark background and strategic lighting highlight the subject's face, creating a sense of volume.
History & Provenance
The painting is part of the Rijksmuseum's collection. De Keyser, born in Antwerp, received patronage from English nuns and Lord Melfort before moving to England, suggesting a connection between his work and international patronage networks.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Willem de Keyser or De Keysar (born c.1647) was a Flemish artist. Born at Antwerp about the year 1647, he was trained as a jeweller, but as an amateur practised in miniature, enamel, and oil-colours. Having painted some…
