Artwork

Young Man

Young Man, by Italian 15th Century, ink, 1464
Young Man, by Italian 15th Century, ink, 1464

Young Man is an ink drawing by the Renaissance artist Italian 15th Century. It dates from 1464 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription
Inscribed:In pen and brown ink at lower left: Paolo Vecello

About this work

Overview

This Renaissance-style drawing depicts a young man in a three-quarter view, facing right, set against a blank background. He wears a long-sleeved tunic, head covering, and wide belt, with his right hand grasping an unspecified object and his left hand positioned in front of him.

Subject & Meaning

The subject is a youthful figure dressed in attire suggestive of the Renaissance era, though the drawing does not provide clear narrative or biographical context. The object in his right hand remains unidentified, leaving the scene's specific meaning open to interpretation.

Technique & Style

Executed in pen and brown ink with brown wash, the drawing exemplifies Renaissance drafting techniques. Characteristic of this period, the work features nuanced shading and expressive line work, capturing the subject's volume and posture.

History & Provenance

No specific historical or ownership details are provided for this drawing, beyond its attribution to the Renaissance style, indicating a creation date roughly between the 14th to 17th centuries.

Context

Understanding this work benefits from knowledge of the broader Renaissance artistic movement, marked by realism, humanism, and refined draftsmanship. For deeper insight into this style, further research into the Renaissance is recommended.

Standing Youth
Standing Youth, Florentine 15th Century

Artist & collection

Portrait of Italian 15th Century

Artist

Italian 15th Century

An anonymous Italian engraver from the 1490s carved images that could be peeled apart like paper dolls.

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

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Young Man?

Young Man was painted by Italian 15th Century in 1464.

Where can I see Young Man?

Young Man is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Young Man?

Young Man is associated with Renaissance.