Who painted Bildnis eines dunkelbärtigen, blauäugigen Mannes?

Bildnis eines dunkelbärtigen, blauäugigen Mannes was painted by Jacopo Tintoretto in 1555.

Where can I see Bildnis eines dunkelbärtigen, blauäugigen Mannes?

Bildnis eines dunkelbärtigen, blauäugigen Mannes is held by Kunsthistorisches Museum.

What movement is Bildnis eines dunkelbärtigen, blauäugigen Mannes?

Bildnis eines dunkelbärtigen, blauäugigen Mannes is associated with Mannerism.

Artwork

Bildnis eines dunkelbärtigen, blauäugigen Mannes

Jacopo Tintoretto , 1555

Bildnis eines dunkelbärtigen, blauäugigen Mannes is an unspecified painting by the Mannerist artist Jacopo Tintoretto. It dates from 1555 and is held in the collection of the Kunsthistorisches Museum.

About this work

Overview

Created in 1555, this portrait by the Venetian painter Jacopo Tintoretto presents a half‑length view of a man with a dark beard and striking blue eyes. The figure is set against a muted, darkened background that recedes gently, emphasizing the sitter’s face and shoulders. The work is part of the collection of the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna.

Subject & Meaning

The sitter is rendered with a thoughtful expression, his gaze directed downward, suggesting introspection or contemplation. The dark beard and hair frame a face marked by delicate modeling, while the blue eyes provide a subtle focal point. The portrait conveys a quiet, personal presence rather than overt narrative, inviting viewers to consider the inner life of the individual.

Technique & Style

Tintoretto employs his characteristic brisk brushwork, using fine, layered strokes to achieve a realistic texture in the skin and hair. The handling of light creates a gentle chiaroscuro that models the facial features against the deep background. Though rooted in the Venetian tradition, the composition reflects Mannerist tendencies toward heightened drama and expressive gesture.

History & Provenance

The painting has been documented as part of the Kunsthistorisches Museum’s holdings since the 19th century, where it remains on display. Its attribution to Tintoreto is supported by stylistic analysis and archival records linking the work to the artist’s mid‑career period in the 1550s.

Artist & collection

Artist

Jacopo Tintoretto

Jacopo Robusti (late September or early October 1518 – 31 May 1594), best known as Tintoretto ( TIN-tə-RET-oh; Italian: ; Venetian: ), was an Italian Renaissance painter of the Venetian school.