Artwork
Portrait of an unknown man
Portrait of an unknown man is a copper painting by the Rococo painting artist Johan Graham. It dates from 1737 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.
About this work
Overview
Portrait of an unknown man is a small oval copper painting created by Johan Graham in 1737. It is currently part of the collection at the Rijksmuseum.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait depicts an unidentified male subject with pale skin and dark hair, dressed in a dark red coat and white shirt. His direct gaze and slightly parted lips convey a quiet, serious demeanor.
Technique & Style
Executed on copper, a common medium for small portraits during this period, the painting features soft brushwork and a simple composition, with a plain dark background and a gold-rimmed frame around the subject's face. Time has introduced some fading to the paint.
History & Provenance
Created in 1737 by Johan Graham, the work's ownership history prior to its acquisition by the Rijksmuseum is not detailed here.
Context
The use of copper for the portrait reflects 18th-century practices for smaller-scale works, emphasizing detail and intimacy.
Artist & collection
