Who painted Vera Icon?

Vera Icon was painted by Unknown in 1500.

Where can I see Vera Icon?

Vera Icon is held by Alte Pinakothek.

What movement is Vera Icon?

Vera Icon is associated with Byzantine icon painting.

Artwork

Vera Icon

Unknown , 1500

Vera Icon is an oil painting by the Byzantine icon painting artist Unknown. It dates from 1500 and is held in the collection of the Alte Pinakothek.

About this work

Overview

Vera Icon is an oil painting that presents a solemn male figure with a dark beard and cropped hair. He is dressed in a red robe accented by a gold chain, set against an unadorned black backdrop that isolates his sharply rendered visage.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait’s inscription includes the Latin mottos *VIA VERITAS VITA* (the way, truth, life) and *PRIMUS ET NOVISSIMUS* (the first and the newest), suggesting a symbolic or allegorical intent that links the sitter to concepts of truth and renewal.

Technique & Style

The work employs a stark chiaroscuro effect, contrasting deep darkness with illuminated facial features to create a three‑dimensional illusion. The limited palette—predominantly red, gold, and black—enhances the dramatic lighting and emphasizes the figure’s expression.

History & Provenance

No specific details about the painting’s creation date, artist, or ownership history are provided in the source material, limiting the ability to trace its provenance or contextual origins.