Artwork
Portrait of Charles II of Bourbon
Portrait of Charles II of Bourbon is an oil painting by the Early Renaissance artist Jean Hey. It dates from 1492 and is held in the collection of the Germanisches Nationalmuseum.
About this work
Overview
Created in 1492 by Jean Hey, an Early Netherlandish painter associated with the Burgundian and French courts, this oil painting portrays Charles II, Duke of Bourbon, in a characteristic attire of the time.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, Charles II of Bourbon, is depicted in a contemplative pose, clad in a white robe with red trim and a matching head covering, symbolizing his noble status. A simple gold ring on his clasped hands underscores his subdued yet dignified demeanor.
Technique & Style
The painting exhibits Hey's mastery of early Renaissance techniques, characterized by smooth, even colors and meticulous attention to light and shadow. The subtle, dark background with indistinct figures contrasts with the detailed, dotted pattern on the subject's robe, potentially indicating either artistic flair or signs of aging.
History & Provenance
Previously attributed to the Master of Moulins, the work is now confirmed as part of Jean Hey's oeuvre. It is currently part of the Alte Pinakothek's collection.
Context
Commissioned during Hey's active period with the Dukes of Bourbon, the portrait reflects the artistic exchange between the Netherlandish and French Renaissance styles prevalent in 15th-century courtly circles.
Artist & collection
Artist
Jean Hey (or Jean Hay) (fl. c. 1475 – c. 1505), now generally identified with the artist formerly known as the Master of Moulins, was an Early Netherlandish painter working in France and the Duchy of Burgundy, and…
Fragment from Christ Carrying the Cross: Mourning Virgin
Fragment from Christ Carrying the Cross: Saint John the Evangelist
The Annunciation
Madonna and Child
Saint Maurice with a Donor
Christ with Crown of Thorns (Ecce Homo)
The Annunciation
Fragment from Christ Carrying the Cross: Saint John the Evangelist
Guillaume de Montmorency
Portrait of King John I of Portugal
Portrait of Lodewijk van Gruuthuse
The Canon Gilles Joye
Portrait of Charles the Bold, Duke of Burgundy (1433-1477)
Portrait of Philip the Good, Duke of Burgundy
Elisabeth von Luxemburg
Portrait of Philip the Good
Portrait of Pope Sixtus IV della Rovere
Portrait of Baudouin de Lannoy
Portrait of a Man
Portrait of Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor