Artwork

Gentleman (from the Tarocchi series E: Conditions of Man, #5)

Gentleman (from the Tarocchi series E: Conditions of Man, #5), by Master of the E-Series Tarocchi, 1465
Gentleman (from the Tarocchi series E: Conditions of Man, #5), by Master of the E-Series Tarocchi, 1465

Gentleman (from the Tarocchi series E: Conditions of Man, #5) is a print by the Renaissance artist Master of the E-Series Tarocchi. It dates from 1465 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

The series is unique because it gives us a glimpse into the social hierarchy of 15th century Italy.

The painting shows a young man holding a falcon.
He's dressed in elegant clothes, turned to the right.
This image is interesting because it's part of a series that shows different social classes, from a beggar to a pope, and this gentleman is one of the higher classes.

The series is unique because it gives us a glimpse into the social hierarchy of 15th century Italy.
The gentleman's clothing and the falcon he's holding suggest a high status.

To learn more about similar art, look up the museum: The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Overview

Gentleman is an engraving from the Tarocchi series E: Conditions of Man, a hierarchical representation of social classes in 15th-century Italy, ranked from lowest to highest.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, Zintilomo (The Gentleman), is depicted as a youthful, elegantly dressed figure holding a falcon, symbolizing high status. Accompanied by a servant and two leashed dogs, the composition reinforces the Gentleman's elevated position within the social ladder.

Technique & Style

While specific artistic techniques are not detailed in the provided facts, the engraving's style is inferred to be characteristic of 15th-century Italian art, with attention to detail in attire and accessories to convey social standing.

History & Provenance

Part of the Tarocchi series E, the engraving's history is tied to its series. However, specific creation dates, artists, or ownership histories before its current location are not provided.

Context

This work provides insight into 15th-century Italian social hierarchy, illustrating the distinct visual markers of wealth and status during the period.

Legacy

As part of a unique series documenting social classes, Gentleman contributes to the understanding of Renaissance societal structures. It is currently housed at The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Artist & collection

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