Artwork
Portrait of a Man
Portrait of a Man is an unspecified painting by the Rococo painting artist Samuel Collins. It dates from 1761 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About this work
History & Provenance
According to the Metropolitan Museum of Art's records, the painting has entered the museum's collection, making the Met its current owner.
Portrait of a Man is a 1761 oil painting by English artist Samuel Collins. The work, catalogued as a portrait, measures 40 × 32 cm and depicts a male sitter. According to the Metropolitan Museum of Art's records, the painting has entered the museum's collection, making the Met its current owner.
No earlier owners or commissioning details are documented in the available sources, and the specific accession number is not given. The painting has not been documented in any specific exhibition history within the provided sources, though its inclusion in the Met's collection ensures its availability for public viewing and potential future display.
Overview
This oval portrait, created by Samuel Collins in 1761, presents an unidentified man in a formal pose. Rendered in a monochrome palette, the artwork is distinguished by its intricate decorative surround. It is currently housed within the collection of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, serving as an example of 18th-century portraiture.
Subject & Meaning
The subject is depicted with a serious expression, attired in a dark coat and a crisp white cravat. This formal presentation suggests the portrait's intended purpose as a significant personal item, perhaps a memento or a gift. The overall composition conveys a sense of importance, implying it was designed for prominent display in a private setting.
Technique & Style
Executed in a black-and-white medium, the portrait's central oval image is framed by an elaborate decorative border. This intricate surround features delicate floral motifs, flowing ribbons, and small beaded details, suggesting the craftsmanship of either finely carved wood or cast metal. The artist's controlled use of light and shadow defines the sitter's features and contributes to the work's refined aesthetic.
Artist & collection
