Artwork

Bildnis eines Herrn im roten Kleid

Bildnis eines Herrn im roten Kleid, by Johann Melchior Wyrsch, oil, 1788
Bildnis eines Herrn im roten Kleid, by Johann Melchior Wyrsch, oil, 1788

Bildnis eines Herrn im roten Kleid is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Johann Melchior Wyrsch. It dates from 1788 and is held in the collection of the Kunsthaus Zürich.

About this work

Overview

Bildnis eines Herrn im roten Kleid is an oil painting created in 1788 by Johann Melchior Wyrsch. It is part of the collection at the Kunsthaus Zürich.

Subject & Meaning

The painting portrays a gentleman dressed in a distinctive, vibrant red coat with gold embroidery and buttons, contrasted with a white lace cravat, a high collar, and a black jacket casually carried under his arm. His hairstyle is styled in an updo. The subject exudes elegance and refinement.

Technique & Style

Wyrsch employs a dark, muted background to accentuate the bright, intricately detailed red coat, leveraging contrast to draw focus to the sitter's attire and demeanor.

History & Provenance

Created in 1788, the work has been acquired by the Kunsthaus Zürich, where it is currently held.

Context

This portrait reflects late 18th-century European fashion and aristocratic or upper-class sartorial tastes, with the red coat symbolizing wealth and status.

Legacy

While specific impact or influence of this particular work is not widely documented, it contributes to the broader understanding of Wyrsch's oeuvre and late 18th-century portrait painting traditions.

Artist & collection

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