Man with a Cane (dummy board)
1696
unspecified
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
1696
unspecified
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
This painting is a portrait of a man dressed in 17th-century attire. He wears a long, dark brown coat with gold embroidery and a red bow at his neck. The man holds a cane in his right hand and has a large, curly wig. The man's face is blurred, and his expression is neutral. He stands on a flat surface, which is likely a dummy board. The background of the painting is a solid color, which helps to focus attention on the subject. The use of chiaroscuro in this painting creates a sense of depth and dimensionality, drawing the viewer's eye to the man's face and clothing. To learn more about the use of chiaroscuro in art, look up the technique.