Artwork

Head of a Young Man in a Feathered Hat (so-called Self-Portrait)

Head of a Young Man in a Feathered Hat (so-called Self-Portrait), by Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione, ink, 1646
Head of a Young Man in a Feathered Hat (so-called Self-Portrait), by Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione, ink, 1646

Head of a Young Man in a Feathered Hat (so-called Self-Portrait) is an ink print by the Baroque artist Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione. It dates from 1646 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription
Inscribed:upper left in plate: GB. CASTILIONVS / GENOVESE. FE.; by later hand, on mount, lower right in graphite: No. 15

About this work

Overview

Head of a Young Man in a Feathered Hat is an etching on laid paper created by Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione, an Italian artist known for his work in various mediums, around 1646.

Subject & Meaning

The etching depicts a young man with curly hair and beard, wearing a feathered hat, and is characterized by rough, expressive lines. The subject's serious expression and the informal style of the work suggest a spontaneous or observational portrait.

Technique & Style

The print showcases Castiglione's skill with etching, a technique involving the use of acid to carve lines into a metal plate, which is then inked and pressed onto paper. The resulting image features textured, scratchy lines that convey a sense of immediacy.

History & Provenance

Castiglione, also known as Il Grechetto in Italy and Le Benédette in France, was a prominent figure in the Genoese school of painting and printmaking. His etchings, including this work, are notable for their innovative and expressive qualities.

Bearded Man in a Fur Cap, Facing Left
Bearded Man in a Fur Cap, Facing Left, Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione

Artist & collection

Portrait of Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione

Artist

Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione

Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione (baptized 23 March 1609 – 5 May 1664) was an Italian Baroque painter, printmaker and draftsman, of the Genoese school.

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

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted Head of a Young Man in a Feathered Hat (so-called Self-Portrait)?

Head of a Young Man in a Feathered Hat (so-called Self-Portrait) was painted by Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione in 1646.

Where can I see Head of a Young Man in a Feathered Hat (so-called Self-Portrait)?

Head of a Young Man in a Feathered Hat (so-called Self-Portrait) is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Head of a Young Man in a Feathered Hat (so-called Self-Portrait)?

Head of a Young Man in a Feathered Hat (so-called Self-Portrait) is associated with Baroque.

Can I buy a print of Head of a Young Man in a Feathered Hat (so-called Self-Portrait)?

Museum-quality prints of Head of a Young Man in a Feathered Hat (so-called Self-Portrait) are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.