The artwork titled “Portrait of a Man with a Letter and Gloves” was created by Hans Holbein the Younger around 1540 in Germany. This piece, executed using oil, wood, and tempera, is a prime example of the Northern Renaissance movement. The portrait measures 32.2 by 25.4 centimeters and falls within the genre of portraiture.
The artwork depicts a man holding a pair of gloves and a letter. The subject is dressed in dark, somber clothing, which presents a stark contrast to his pale face. His gaze is directed outward, imbued with a sense of contemplation. The delicate rendering of textures and materials, such as the fur lining of his garment, showcases Holbein’s masterful technique. The background is dark, drawing attention to the man’s face and the objects he holds, which adds to the overall mood of introspective solemnity.