Tommaso di Folco Portinari (1428–1501); Maria Portinari (Maria Maddalena Baroncelli, born 1456)

The painting "Tommaso di Folco Portinari; Maria Portinari" by Hans Memling, created around 1470, is a double portrait of the prominent Florentine merchant Tommaso di Folco Portinari and his wife Maria Portinari, also known as Maria Maddalena Baroncelli. The work is notable for its detailed representation of the sitters, showcasing Memling's skill in capturing individual likenesses and textures. Tommaso Portinari was a significant figure in the Medici bank and played a crucial role in the economic and cultural exchanges between Florence and Bruges. Maria Portinari, born in 1456, was the daughter of a wealthy Florentine family, and her marriage to Tommaso solidified important social and economic ties. The painting is characterized by its use of oil on wood, a medium that allowed for rich color and intricate detail. The background features a landscape that may symbolize the couple's connection to their homeland. The work is currently housed in the collection of the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. The exact circumstances of the commission and the painting's early history remain unknown.

The painting "Tommaso di Folco Portinari; Maria Portinari" by Hans Memling features a diptych format, with two panels depicting the figures of Tommaso di Folco Portinari and his wife, Maria Portinari. Tommaso is portrayed on the left, dressed in a dark, richly textured garment adorned with a fur collar, and he gazes directly at the viewer with a composed expression. His face is characterized by a strong, angular jawline and a neatly trimmed beard, conveying a sense of dignity and authority. Maria, positioned on the right, is depicted in a light-colored gown with intricate detailing, including a delicate headdress that frames her face. Her expression is serene, and she gazes slightly downward, suggesting modesty and grace. The background of the painting is a muted, dark tone that enhances the figures' prominence, while the use of oil on wood allows for a smooth application of color and fine detail. The overall composition is balanced, with both figures occupying equal visual weight, and the use of light and shadow adds depth to their forms. The work exemplifies Memling's mastery of portraiture and his ability to convey the individuality of his subjects.