Artwork

Portrait of Hendrik III, Count of Nassau-Breda

Portrait of Hendrik III, Count of Nassau-Breda, by Jan Gossaert, oil, 1510
Portrait of Hendrik III, Count of Nassau-Breda, by Jan Gossaert, oil, 1510

Portrait of Hendrik III, Count of Nassau-Breda is an oil painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Jan Gossaert. It dates from 1510 and is held in the collection of the Kimbell Art Museum.

About this work

Overview

The Portrait of Hendrik III, Count of Nassau-Breda is a painting created by Jan Gossaert, also known as Jan Mabuse, in 1510 using oil paint. It is a representative work of the Northern Renaissance.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait depicts Hendrik III, Count of Nassau-Breda, shown with a serious expression, dressed in attire indicative of his status, including a black hat with a gold brooch and a dark brown jacket with gold buttons. He holds a rolled-up paper, suggesting his involvement in administrative or intellectual pursuits.

Technique & Style

Gossaert's use of oil paint achieves a high level of detail and realism, characteristic of his training in the Flemish tradition. The subtle play of light and shadow, evident in the subject's attire and the muted green background, demonstrates his skillful application of chiaroscuro.

History & Provenance

Gossaert's trip to Italy and Rome in 1508–09, shortly before creating this portrait, exposed him to Renaissance styles that likely influenced his work. The painting reflects the blending of his Flemish roots with the new influences he encountered during his travels.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Jan Gossaert

Artist

Jan Gossaert

Jan Gossaert (c. 1478 – 1 October 1532) was a French-speaking painter from the Low Countries also known as Jan Mabuse (the name he adopted from his birthplace, Maubeuge) or Jennyn van Hennegouwe (Hainaut), as he called…

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Kimbell Art Museum open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.