#13778 Pietro Perugino (1445-1523)

The portrait presents a man in profile, viewed from approximately three-quarters angle. He is depicted against a dark, textured background that appears almost black, creating a stark contrast with his skin tones and emphasizing his form. The individuals head is shaved, revealing the scalp’s texture and subtle variations in color – a pale yellow interspersed with areas of pink and grey. Fine lines are visible on his forehead and around his eyes, suggesting age and experience.
The artist has rendered the man’s features with a meticulous attention to detail; the curve of his nose, the shape of his ear, and the slight indentation beneath his chin are all carefully observed and faithfully reproduced. The lighting is soft and diffused, illuminating one side of his face while leaving the other in shadow. This creates a sense of depth and volume, highlighting the contours of his skull and jawline.
Inscribed along the top edge of the composition are the words D. BALTASAR MONACO, while the right side bears the inscription “STV SVCCVRRE.” These inscriptions suggest that the subject is a monk named Baltasar, and the latter phrase may be an abbreviated form of a religious invocation or title.
The overall effect is one of solemnity and introspection. The man’s gaze is directed upwards and slightly to the left, conveying a sense of contemplation or spiritual yearning. His expression is serious, almost melancholic, hinting at inner thoughts and burdens. The absence of any surrounding objects or landscape further isolates the figure, focusing attention entirely on his character and presence. The portrait seems intended not merely as a likeness but as an exploration of identity, faith, and perhaps even mortality.