Artwork

Portrait of a Man with an Earring

Portrait of a Man with an Earring, by Anonymous Graff, unspecified, 1800
Portrait of a Man with an Earring, by Anonymous Graff, unspecified, 1800

Portrait of a Man with an Earring is an unspecified portrait miniature by the Biedermeier artist Anonymous Graff. It dates from 1800 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. This portrait miniature, created around 1800, depicts a man with distinctive features.

Accession no.
1940.1209

About this work

Overview

This portrait miniature, created around 1800, depicts a man with distinctive features. It is a small, round painting attributed to an artist named Graff.

Subject & Meaning

The subject is a man with curly gray hair, wearing a black coat, white shirt, and a striped cravat, with a gold earring in his left ear. His serious expression is highlighted by soft lighting, suggesting an emphasis on capturing his mood.

Technique & Style

The painting's use of chiaroscuro, evident in the soft lighting on the subject's face, creates a nuanced and introspective atmosphere. The artist's focus on mood over detailed representation is characteristic of the work.

History & Provenance

The portrait is signed 'Graff' in the corner, a name associated with a group of lesser-known painters. The work is now held at The Cleveland Museum of Art, framed in gold with a dark border.

Portrait of a Man with an Earring
Portrait of a Man with an Earring, Unknown

Artist & collection

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

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Portrait of a Man with an Earring?

Portrait of a Man with an Earring was painted by Anonymous Graff in 1800.

Where can I see Portrait of a Man with an Earring?

Portrait of a Man with an Earring is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Portrait of a Man with an Earring?

Portrait of a Man with an Earring is associated with Biedermeier.