Who painted Portrait of a Man?

Portrait of a Man was painted by Nicolas de Largillière in 1706.

Where can I see Portrait of a Man?

Portrait of a Man is held by Statens Museum for Kunst.

What movement is Portrait of a Man?

Portrait of a Man is associated with Rococo painting.

Artwork

Portrait of a Man

Nicolas de Largillière , 1706

Portrait of a Man is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Nicolas de Largillière. It dates from 1706 and is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst. Created circa 1706, this oil portrait presents a solitary gentleman rendered in the early Rococo idiom.

About this work

Overview

Created circa 1706, this oil portrait presents a solitary gentleman rendered in the early Rococo idiom. The canvas is part of the Statens Museum for Kunst’s holdings, offering a glimpse of French portraiture at the turn of the eighteenth century. The work exemplifies the period’s interest in refined, intimate depictions of individual sitters.

Subject & Meaning

The sitter is shown from the chest upward, his head turned slightly to the left. Light‑colored, loosely curled hair frames a composed expression, while a delicate lace collar and dark jacket suggest a gentleman of modest status. The composition focuses on personal presence rather than narrative, inviting contemplation of the individual’s character.

Technique & Style

Largillière employs a restrained palette and deft chiaroscuro, allowing the dark background to accentuate the illuminated face and attire. Fine brushwork captures the texture of lace and fabric, while subtle modeling gives the portrait a three‑dimensional quality. The handling reflects the transitional style between Baroque vigor and the emerging Rococo elegance.

History & Provenance

The painting was produced by Nicolas de Largillière, a prominent French painter who later directed the Académie de Peinture et de Sculpture (1733‑35). After changing hands over the centuries, it entered the collection of Denmark’s national gallery, the Statens Museum for Kunst, where it remains on display for scholarly and public appreciation.

Artist & collection

Artist

Nicolas de Largillière

Nicolas de Largillière (French: ; baptised 10 October 1656 – 20 March 1746) was a French painter and draughtsman. From 1733 until 1735, he was director of the Académie de Peinture et de Sculpture.