Lorenzo Lotto was a prominent painter, draughtsman, and illustrator during the High Renaissance period. Although primarily known for his religious subjects and portraits, he also painted “Architect,” an artwork created in c.1535 that depicts a man surrounded by architectural elements.
The identity of the person in this painting is subject to debate, but some experts believe it could represent Sansovino, Lotto’s close friend between 1527 and 1529. The portrait shows the sitter holding a set square and compass while looking directly at the viewer. He wears fine garments with a fur collar and cap.
Lotto’s use of chiaroscuro gives depth and definition to the portrait’s subject matter -the sharp lines define his figure against the lighter background- while paying particular attention to detail with impeccable textures evident on not only clothing but also on backgrounds such as curtains running along borders of paintings such as Architect– having painted fabric – must have given him pleasure.
Overall, with elaborate details and intricate textures that display well-crafted skill here is an elegant thought-provoking artwork worth beholden in person rather than through digital images found online.
