The artwork, “Unknown Gentleman with Music Books and Lute” by Hans Holbein the Younger, dates back to approximately 1534 in Germany. Executed in oil, panel, and tempera, this portrait is a prime example of the Northern Renaissance art movement. The dimensions of the piece are 43.5 x 43.5 cm.
The artwork depicts an unknown gentleman seated at a table adorned with music books and a lute. The gentleman, sporting a well-groomed beard and moustache, is dressed in a black hat and sumptuous attire, indicating a figure of wealth or importance. His dark, elaborate clothing contrasts against the muted backdrop of richly draped fabric, enhancing the subject’s presence. He appears to be in deep contemplation, holding a piece of paper, while an open book and spectacles rest on the table before him, suggesting his engagement in scholarly or musical pursuits. The fine details and realistic representation are characteristic of Holbein’s mastery in capturing the essence of his subjects during the Northern Renaissance period.
