Portrait of an Artist

Follower of Frans Hals

Created:
Movement:
1644
Baroque
key Notes:
Expressive brushwork, Lively characterization
Share:
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
Dimensions:
82.6 × 64.8 cm (32 1/2 × 25 1/2 in.)
medium:
Oil on canvas
story of the work:

"Portrait of an Artist" by a Follower of Frans Hals is a work that reflects the stylistic characteristics of the Dutch Golden Age, particularly the portraiture tradition associated with Hals. The painting likely depicts an artist, possibly a self-portrait or a representation of a contemporary figure in the art community. The use of loose brushwork and a lively color palette is indicative of Hals' influence, emphasizing the subject's personality and vitality. The exact date of creation remains unknown, but it is generally attributed to the early to mid-17th century, aligning with the peak of Hals' career. The work exemplifies the interest in individualism and the status of artists during this period in the Netherlands. The painting's provenance and exhibition history may provide further context regarding its reception and significance within the art historical narrative.

Description of the work:

"Portrait of an Artist" by a Follower of Frans Hals is an oil on canvas work that exemplifies the characteristics of Dutch portraiture in the 17th century. The composition features a male figure, likely an artist, depicted in a three-quarter pose, which is a hallmark of Hals' style. The subject is dressed in period attire, characterized by a dark, richly textured garment that contrasts with a lighter collar, drawing attention to the face. The artist's expression is contemplative, with a slight turn of the head that suggests engagement with the viewer. The background is rendered in a muted palette, allowing the figure to emerge prominently from the canvas. The brushwork is loose and dynamic, indicative of Hals' influence, capturing the texture of the fabric and the play of light on the subject's features. The overall composition conveys a sense of immediacy and vitality, reflecting the artist's skill in portraying character and individuality.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Art Institute of Chicago

Could this content be improved?

Please let us know and we will be happy to correct it. We have put a ton of effort into collating and organizing all of this.
We may follow up with questions.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Portrait of an Artist