The artwork “Antonio de Covarrubias” by El Greco is an oil on canvas portrait completed in 1594, during the Mannerism (Late Renaissance) art movement. With dimensions of 67.5 x 57.5 cm, the painting can be found at the Louvre in Paris, France.
In this portrait, the subject, Antonio de Covarrubias, appears in what looks like a three-quarter pose against a dark, indeterminate background that provides a strong contrast to the figure. The subject has a thoughtful, slightly sorrowful expression with a gaze that appears to be directed towards the viewer. Covarrubias’ face is rendered with a focus on realism, with detailed brushwork highlighting the textures of his skin, his graying beard, and his deep-set eyes. His clothing suggests a clerical or scholarly status, characterized by a dark robe and a white collar peeking out at the neckline. The mannerist style is indicated by the emotional intensity of the subject’s expression and the subtle distortions in proportions that give the work a sense of movement and drama. The use of chiaroscuro—the contrast of light and shadow—gives three-dimensionality and weight to the figure, enhancing the psychological depth of the portrait.
