Portrait of a Man
c. 1460-1465 National Gallery of Art, Washington D.C.
About this artwork
This painting features a man depicted in a rigid profile, a common style for portraits during the Italian Renaissance, set against a mottled blue background. The sitter wears a dark cap and a richly colored, possibly embroidered, red garment.
Did you know?
During the Early Renaissance, profile portraits like this one were a nod to classical antiquity, specifically ancient Roman coins and medallions that featured rulers in profile. This style emphasized the sitter's individual character and status, presenting them with a timeless dignity that resonated with the era's renewed interest in classical ideals. Mantegna, a master of perspective and classical forms, excelled in creating such monumental and psychologically insightful portraits.
On your wall. Unlock the HD download and keep this piece in your Vault — forever.
Know the artwork. Knowing its title and artist turns a beautiful image into a story worth sharing — with a museum label:
Portrait of a Man
Andrea Mantegna, c. 1460-1465
