On-line gallery
- Reference number
- P01224
- Author
- Velázquez, Diego Rodríguez de Silva y (Spanish)
- Title
- Portrait of a Man
- Chronology
- Ca. 1623
- Technique
- Support
- Measures
- 55,5 cm x 38 cm
- School
- Theme
- Shown
- Yes
- Entrance
- COLECCION REAL
- Procedence
- Royal collection
Though not conclusively identified,
this was thought to be a youthful
self-portrait, or possibly an image
of the painter's brother, Juan.
This type of portrait, a bust on a
neutral background, corresponds to
a customary model of portraiture in
the early decades of the
seventeenth century and was
intended for private use.
The tight and detailed
brushstrokes, rather hard modeling
and very directed light, as well as
the use of a very restricted
palette, place this work at a
turning point between Velasquez's
last years in Seville and his
definitive move to the Court.
Moreover, the type of collar, which
was made obligatory by Royal Order
in 1623, helps to date this
work.
The painting has not been linked to
any entry in the royal inventories,
probably because it has no
particular distinguishing elements.
In 1819 it was one of the works
belonging to King Fernando VII that
made up the Prado Museum.
Location on the map
