The artwork titled “Portrait of Cardinal Tavera” is a creation of El Greco, a master of the Mannerism movement within the Late Renaissance period. Crafted circa 1610 in Spain, this oil on canvas portrait measures 103 by 83 centimeters. The genre of this piece fits squarely into portraiture, capturing the likeness and perhaps intrinsic character of the individual depicted.
The artwork depicts an elderly man, presumably Cardinal Tavera, dressed in the robes indicative of his ecclesiastical station. The cardinal wears a sumptuous red cape with a white rochet underneath, signaling his high status in the Catholic Church. His attire is both refined and unembellished, befitting the somber responsibilities of his role. His countenance bears the marks of age and experience, with keen eyes that reflect intelligence and possibly a lifetime of spiritual and administrative duties. His gesturing hands are depicted with delicate care, one resting upon a book, suggesting wisdom, learning, or perhaps a connection to his faith. The use of chiaroscuro—an interplay of light and shadow—and the strong character etched into the facial expression are typical of El Greco’s unique approach, intertwining the physical and psychological presence of the subject. The composition is straightforward yet reveals an intimate portrayal of the cardinal in a moment of calm introspection.
