Bartholomaeus Bruyn the Elder(1493-1555) – Portrait of a Lord of Westerburg, Age 38 Kunsthistorisches Museum

Here we see a half-length portrait of a man, likely of considerable social standing given his attire and demeanor. The composition is straightforward: he faces slightly towards the viewers left, with a direct gaze that conveys a sense of authority and perhaps guardedness.
The artist has rendered him in rich, warm tones. His skin exhibits a careful modeling to suggest volume and texture, while the fur-lined cloak draped over his shoulders adds visual weight and emphasizes his status. The elaborate collar, meticulously detailed, speaks to an attention to detail characteristic of portraiture intended to showcase wealth and refinement. He wears a dark cap, its shape simple yet dignified, framing his face and drawing focus to his features.
His hands are clasped in front of him, the gesture controlled and deliberate. A ring adorns one finger, another subtle indicator of his position. The background is a deep green, providing a stark contrast that further isolates the figure and enhances his presence. Numerals – 1524 and 38 – are inscribed on the upper corners, likely denoting the year of creation and the subject’s age at the time.
The mans expression is complex. While there is an element of seriousness, a slight downturn to the mouth suggests perhaps weariness or introspection. The eyes hold a certain intensity, hinting at intelligence and experience. This isn’t a portrait intended to elicit immediate warmth; rather, it aims to convey a sense of power, responsibility, and a measured self-awareness.
The overall effect is one of restrained grandeur. Its not an overtly celebratory image, but rather a formal record of a man in his prime, presented with dignity and a quiet assertion of his place within the social hierarchy. The painting’s subtext lies in its careful construction of identity – a deliberate presentation designed to project an image of authority and permanence.