French 16th Century – Portrait of a Member of the Quaratesi Family National Gallery of Art (Washington)

The composition presents a three-quarter view of a man against a dark, indistinct background. He is positioned slightly off-center, his gaze directed towards the viewer with a measured intensity. The lighting emphasizes his face and upper torso, leaving the lower portion in shadow, which contributes to a sense of formality and restraint.
Here we see the subject dressed in elaborate attire characteristic of the period. A dark, high-collared garment, likely velvet or a similar luxurious fabric, dominates the visual field. The sleeves are puffed at the shoulders and taper towards the wrist, revealing glimpses of intricately embroidered cuffs. He wears a black beret, adding to the overall impression of status and refinement. A neatly trimmed beard and mustache frame his face, contributing to an air of cultivated masculinity.
The artist has rendered the skin tones with considerable skill, capturing subtle variations in light and shadow that suggest volume and texture. The eyes are particularly noteworthy; they convey a sense of intelligence and perhaps even a hint of melancholy.
In the upper left corner, inscribed in Latin script, is an indication of age (Anno Aetatis Suae 34 - In the year of his life 34). A heraldic shield is positioned on the right side of the composition, signifying familial lineage and social standing. The coat of arms serves as a visual marker of identity and belonging within a specific aristocratic context.
The subdued color palette – primarily dark browns, blacks, and whites – reinforces the solemnity of the portrait. This limited range directs attention to the subjects features and clothing, underscoring his importance. The overall effect is one of dignified composure and controlled presentation, suggesting that this individual wished to project an image of power, wealth, and respectability. The pose itself – one arm casually draped across his body – introduces a subtle element of relaxed confidence within the formal setting.