Who painted Portrait of a Man?

Portrait of a Man was painted by Nicholas Hilliard in 1594.

Where can I see Portrait of a Man?

Portrait of a Man is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Portrait of a Man?

Portrait of a Man is associated with Renaissance.

Artwork

Portrait of a Man

Nicholas Hilliard , 1594

Portrait of a Man is an unspecified portrait miniature by the Renaissance artist Nicholas Hilliard. It dates from 1594 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Accession no.: 1941.557
Credit line: The Edward B. Greene Collection

About this work

Overview

This portrait miniature, created around 1594, is the work of Nicholas Hilliard, a prominent English artist known for his small-scale portraits. The piece is a small, round depiction of a man with a serious expression.

Subject & Meaning

The subject wears a dark collar with lace trim and a black cap, set against a plain dark blue background. The level of detail, particularly in the rendering of facial shadows, suggests the portrait was intended as a personal keepsake.

Technique & Style

The portrait is characteristic of Hilliard's style, which was distinct from broader European trends of the late 16th century. The gold frame features a intricate, lace-like pattern, complementing the subject's attire.

History & Provenance

The portrait is now held in the collection of The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Artist & collection

Artist

Nicholas Hilliard

Nicholas Hilliard (c. 1547 – before 7 January 1619) was an English goldsmith and limner best known for his portrait miniatures of members of the courts of Elizabeth I and James I of England. He mostly painted small oval…