Cesare Borgia (Arthur Kraft) Lovis Corinth (1858-1925)

The composition presents a seated figure rendered in a loose, expressive style. The subject is positioned centrally within the frame, occupying nearly the entire vertical space. He appears to be a man dressed in elaborate attire suggestive of a military or aristocratic role – a feathered hat sits atop his head, and he wears a richly detailed tunic with puffed sleeves and patterned leggings. A dark cape drapes over his left shoulder, partially obscuring the background.
The artist’s brushwork is vigorous and visible, contributing to an overall sense of immediacy and energy. Colors are applied in broad strokes, creating a textured surface that emphasizes form rather than precise detail. The palette leans towards earthy tones – greens, browns, reds – with highlights of white and cream used for the tunic and facial features. Light falls unevenly on the figure, highlighting certain areas while leaving others in shadow, which enhances the dramatic effect.
The man’s gaze is direct and intense; he looks outward with a mixture of confidence and perhaps a hint of calculation. His mustache is prominent, adding to his assertive presence. The posture is upright but relaxed, suggesting both authority and a degree of self-assurance.
Subtleties within the work suggest more than a straightforward portrait. The somewhat theatrical costume hints at a constructed persona, an individual consciously projecting an image of power or status. The dark background creates a sense of isolation, potentially implying a solitary nature or a burden of responsibility. The visible brushstrokes and expressive style contribute to a feeling that this is not merely a representation but rather an interpretation – a psychological study of the subject’s character. Theres a tension between the opulent display of clothing and the somewhat somber mood conveyed by the figure’s expression and the overall color scheme, suggesting complexities beneath the surface. The inscription at the top left corner adds another layer; it seems to be a signature or annotation that further anchors the work within a specific historical context.