A Man
- Artist: Netherlandish
- Date: about 1550
- Medium: oil on wood
- Museum: The National Gallery
- Collection record: The National Gallery website
Listen to the free audio guide
About this artwork
This is "A Man" painted in the Netherlandish style. The artist's identity remains a mystery, but he was likely influenced by Anthonis Mor, a renowned painter of his time. As you can see, the subject is dressed in rich attire, with a distinctive collar that bears resemblance to those worn by prominent figures in 16th-century England.
The painting has undergone significant overpainting, making it difficult to discern its original quality. However, an X-ray image reveals a level of detail and skill that suggests a more refined work. The panel itself is poorly constructed, leading some to believe it may not have originated from the Low Countries, where Mor was active.
Despite these uncertainties, "A Man" still showcases a strong affinity with Netherlandish portraiture and Mor's style in particular. Its age is estimated to be around 1550, based on dendrochronological evidence.
See it in person
A Man hangs in The National Gallery on Trafalgar Square, London — free to enter. Point your phone at any artwork there and audioguide.london plays a free audio guide in six languages — no app download needed.
