The artwork titled “Portrait of Robert Cheseman,” created by Hans Holbein the Younger in 1533 in Germany, represents a significant work of the Northern Renaissance period. Executed in oil, wood, and tempera, this portrait adheres to the aesthetic and technical conventions of its time. Measuring 59 x 62.5 cm, the artwork showcases Holbein’s mastery in portraying his subject with meticulous detail and depth.
In the artwork, Robert Cheseman is depicted in a three-quarter view, wearing a fur-lined garment, indicative of his status and wealth. His right hand delicately holds a falcon, a symbol of his gentlemanly pursuits and nobility. The background is a solid dark color, which serves to highlight the subject’s facial features and attire. Cheseman’s expression appears contemplative, and his gaze is directed towards the left, suggesting introspection or engagement with an unseen figure. The careful rendering of textures, especially the fine details of the falcon’s feathers and Cheseman’s attire, exemplifies Holbein’s skillful artistry and his remarkable ability to capture the essence of the subject.
