Unknown, Portrait of a South American Nobleman, 1680, Oil & Marble

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A rare south american painting from the second half of the 17th century. This oil on marble portrait depicts a … Read more A rare south american painting from the second half of the 17th century. This oil on marble portrait depicts a noble gentleman belonging to colonial high society, following the canons of european portraiture. The subject is depicted full-length, set in a splendid idealized landscape with slender trees and sloping hills in the background. He wears a sumptuous aristocratic dress in 17th-century style, and the details and metallic reflections are rendered with miniature finesse.

a highly decorative and interesting element is the plumed hat, a symbol of rank and refinement. In one hand, he holds a sheet of paper, a detail suggesting a cultured and official role, perhaps linked to diplomatic duties. The face, framed by a long, wavy wig, is characterized by a rosy, luminous, and polished complexion. The composition is typical of south american portraiture, a precious artwork produced by a high-level spanish-american colonial workshop.

these paintings were created on high-quality supports and in formats suitable for easy transport. The painting is striking for its extraordinary pictorial finesse and the luminosity afforded by the precious marble support. A refined and extremely rare work, ideal for a study, or a perfect addition to a wunderkammer collection, the so-called cabinet of curiosities. The 19th-century frame is carved and gilded wood, with some signs of aging. Overall, the painting is in good condition. Internal dimensions: h 22 x w 16 cm. See less