Artwork

Portrait of a Woman

Portrait of a Woman, by Jörg Breu the Elder, oil, 1515
Portrait of a Woman, by Jörg Breu the Elder, oil, 1515

Portrait of a Woman is an oil painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Jörg Breu the Elder. It dates from 1515 and is held in the collection of the Detroit Institute of Arts.

About this work

Overview

Portrait of a Woman is a 1515 panel painting by Jörg Breu the Elder, a prominent figure in the German Danube school. The work is housed at the Detroit Institute of Arts.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a woman with a serious expression, dressed in attire typical of the period. Her pale skin and dark clothing are set against a stark black background, drawing attention to her face.

Technique & Style

The artist's use of chiaroscuro creates a strong contrast between light and dark, emphasizing the subject's features. The painting's style is characteristic of the Northern Renaissance, reflecting Breu's training in Augsburg and his travels to Italy.

History & Provenance

Breu's artistic approach was influenced by his journeys to Italy, including a trip in 1514/15. As the son of a weaver, he trained in Augsburg before developing his skills further.

Artist & collection

Artist

Jörg Breu the Elder

Jörg Breu the Elder (c. 1475–1537), of Augsburg, was a painter of the German Danube school. He was the son of a weaver. He journeyed to Austria and created several multi-panel altarpieces there in 1500–02, such as the…