Artwork
Portrait of a Man
Portrait of a Man is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Jean-Baptiste Perronneau. It dates from 1766 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Ireland.
About this work
Overview
Jean-Baptiste Perronneau, a French artist linked to the Rococo period, painted *Portrait of a Man* in 1766 with oil on canvas. The work is part of the National Gallery of Ireland’s collection and exemplifies his practice of rendering individual likenesses in a refined, intimate manner.
Subject & Meaning
The canvas presents an older gentleman dressed in a dark coat with white lace cuffs, his expression solemn. He holds a small sheet of paper, suggesting a personal or professional matter, while the plain, dark background eliminates distractions, directing focus to his demeanor and attire.
Technique & Style
Perronneau employs a controlled chiaroscuro, using soft, directional light to model the face, cheek, and neck. The subtle gradations of shadow and illumination create a smooth surface that emphasizes the subject’s features without overt dramatization, characteristic of his portraiture approach.
History & Provenance
Created in the mid‑18th century, the painting entered the National Gallery of Ireland’s holdings, where it remains on display. Its provenance traces back to the artist’s French workshop, though specific ownership before acquisition by the museum is not documented in the available records.
Artist & collection
Artist
Jean-Baptiste Perronneau (French pronunciation: ; c. 1716 – 19 November 1783) was a French Rococo painter and draughtsman, best known for his portrait pastels.
