Artwork

Portrait of a Young Man

Portrait of a Young Man, by Rosso Fiorentino, oil, 1517
Portrait of a Young Man, by Rosso Fiorentino, oil, 1517

Portrait of a Young Man is an oil painting by the Mannerist artist Rosso Fiorentino. It dates from 1517 and is held in the collection of the Gemäldegalerie Berlin.

About this work

Overview

Portrait of a Young Man is an oil on wood painting created by Italian Mannerist Rosso Fiorentino around 1517-1518, currently housed at Berlin's Gemäldegalerie.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, a youthful figure with long brown hair, is portrayed in formal attire—a black hat, coat, and white ruffled collar—conveying elegance and refinement against a natural backdrop.

Technique & Style

Rosso Fiorentino employed chiaroscuro, juxtaposing dark tones (black, brown, green) with lighter elements to create depth, volume, and a sense of dramatic tension.

History & Provenance

Executed circa 1517-1518, the painting's ownership history prior to its current location in the Gemäldegalerie, Berlin, is not detailed here.

Context

The work reflects Mannerist influences through its use of contrast and emotional depth, set within a landscape that subtly complements the subject's demeanor.

Legacy

As a Mannerist piece, it contributes to the understanding of 16th-century artistic transitions, though its specific impact or notable exhibitions are not highlighted in available information.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Rosso Fiorentino

Artist

Rosso Fiorentino

Rosso Fiorentino stood out in the Italian Renaissance for one reason—he was always bent on doing things his own way.

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