Artwork

Portrait of a Young Man as David

Portrait of a Young Man as David, by Jacopo Tintoretto, oil, 1557
Portrait of a Young Man as David, by Jacopo Tintoretto, oil, 1557

Portrait of a Young Man as David is an oil painting by the Mannerist artist Jacopo Tintoretto. It dates from 1557 and is held in the collection of the National Museum of Western Art.

About this work

Overview

This 1557 oil painting, Portrait of a Young Man as David, is a work by Jacopo Tintoretto, a Venetian artist known for his expressive and dynamic style.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a nobly dressed young man holding a sword, identified as the biblical figure David. His attire, including a red velvet coat with white fur trim, conveys a sense of strength and nobility.

Technique & Style

Tintoretto's use of chiaroscuro creates a dramatic effect, with strong contrasts between light and dark adding volume and depth to the scene. The painting exemplifies the Mannerist style, characterized by tension, elegance, and bold brushwork.

History & Provenance

The painting is part of the National Museum of Western Art's collection. Created by Jacopo Robusti, known as Tintoretto, it reflects his reputation for rapid technique and innovative style.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Jacopo Tintoretto

Artist

Jacopo Tintoretto

Jacopo Robusti (late September or early October 1518 – 31 May 1594), best known as Tintoretto ( TIN-tə-RET-oh; Italian: ; Venetian: ), was an Italian Renaissance painter of the Venetian school.