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portrait of Johann Kleeberger by Albrecht Dürer (German, 1471–1528)

Albrecht Dürer (German, 1471–1528) · 1526-01-01

Albrecht Dürer's Portrait of Johann Kleeberger, from 1526, offers a fascinating look at a prominent Nuremberg merchant during the German Renaissance, now housed at the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna.

Dürer captures Kleeberger's likeness with remarkable detail, from the sculpted shadows around his ear and neck to the texture of his hair. The portrait is designed like a classical medal, with Kleeberger's bust emerging from a trompe-l'œil wall.

Kleeberger was a wealthy financier who had married into the family of Dürer's close friend, Willibald Pirckheimer, highlighting his social standing. The Latin inscription around the figure identifies the sitter and states his age. The heraldic motifs further emphasize his lineage and importance.

Dürer was one of the most important figures of the Northern Renaissance, known for his masterful engravings, altarpieces, and portraits. What details do you notice first?

Details

Johann Kleeberger married the daughter of the painter's close friend.
Johann Kleeberger married the daughter of the painter's close friend.
Notice how his ear and neck are sculpted from shadow.
Notice how his ear and neck are sculpted from shadow.
The artist rendered every detail with intense realism.
The artist rendered every detail with intense realism.
The Latin inscription identifies Kleeberger and his age, 40.
The Latin inscription identifies Kleeberger and his age, 40.
Transcript

This is a Nuremberg merchant, painted in 1526. Johann Kleeberger married the daughter of the painter's close friend. Notice how his ear and neck are sculpted from shadow. The artist rendered every detail with intense realism. The Latin inscription identifies Kleeberger and his age, 40. These heraldic motifs speak to his family and status. The painter was Albrecht Dürer, who signed his work here.