Artwork

Portrait of a beardless man

Portrait of a beardless man, by Hans Maler zu Schwaz, oil
Portrait of a beardless man, by Hans Maler zu Schwaz, oil

Portrait of a beardless man is an oil painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Hans Maler zu Schwaz. It is held in the collection of the Kunsthistorisches Museum.

About this work

Technique & Style

The painting was executed in oil on wood panel, a technique characteristic of early 16th-century German portraiture.

The painting was executed in oil on wood panel, a technique characteristic of early 16th-century German portraiture. Its restrained modeling of facial features and precise rendering of attire reflect the stylistic priorities of the German Renaissance, emphasizing clarity and psychological presence. The work measures 37.5 cm in height by 31.3 cm in width and remains in good condition, with the surface showing only minor craquelure consistent with its age.

History & Provenance

The Portrait of a beardless man was created by Hans Maler zu Schwaz in 1521. Executed in oil paint on a panel, the work measures 37.5 cm in height and 31.3 cm in width. It is currently held in the collection of the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna.

The sources do not provide details regarding the original commission, the specific identity of the sitter, or the intermediate ownership history prior to its arrival at the museum.

Overview

The Portrait of a Beardless Man is a 1521 oil painting by Hans Maler zu Schwaz, a German artist associated with the Northern Renaissance.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait depicts an unidentified man with a serious expression, dressed in attire typical of the Renaissance period, suggesting a connection to the wealthy merchant or noble classes of the time.

Portrait of a Beardless Man
Portrait of a Beardless Man, Joos van Cleve

Artist & collection

Artist

Hans Maler zu Schwaz

Hans Maler zu Schwaz (1480/88 – 1526/29) was a German painter born in Ulm and active as portraitist in the village of Schwaz, near Innsbruck.

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Portrait of a beardless man?

Portrait of a beardless man was painted by Hans Maler zu Schwaz.

Where can I see Portrait of a beardless man?

Portrait of a beardless man is held by Kunsthistorisches Museum.

What movement is Portrait of a beardless man?

Portrait of a beardless man is associated with Northern Renaissance.