Artwork

Head of a Boy

Head of a Boy, by Frans Floris, oil, 1553
Head of a Boy, by Frans Floris, oil, 1553

Head of a Boy is an oil painting by the Mannerist artist Frans Floris. It dates from 1553 and is held in the collection of the Kunsthistorisches Museum.

About this work

Overview

Head of a Boy is a portrait painting executed in oil by Frans Floris in 1553, characterized by its focus on a youthful subject with distinct attire and expressive lighting.

Subject & Meaning

The painting portrays a young boy with short, light hair and a serious demeanor, adorned with a dark hat, black collar, white ruff, and a gold necklace, conveying an air of solemnity and potentially hinting at the boy's social status.

Technique & Style

Floris employed soft, chiaroscuro lighting to accentuate the boy's facial features, set against a plain, dark background, achieving a near three-dimensional effect through the contrast of light and shadow.

History & Provenance

Created in 1553, the painting is currently part of the collection at the Kunsthistorisches Museum.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Frans Floris

Artist

Frans Floris

Frans Floris, Frans Floris the Elder or Frans Floris de Vriendt (17 April 1519 – 1 October 1570) was a Flemish painter, draughtsman, print artist and tapestry designer.