Portrait of Cardinal Tavera El Greco (1541-1614)

The composition presents a man in formal attire, positioned against a dark, indistinct background. He is depicted from the chest upwards, angled slightly towards the viewer. The most striking element is his elaborate crimson cloak, which dominates the visual field with its rich color and voluminous folds. Beneath the cloak, a white shirt with a high, starched collar is visible, contributing to the overall impression of authority and status.
The man’s face displays an expression that is difficult to categorize definitively; it appears neither overtly joyful nor sorrowful, but rather marked by a certain weariness or introspection. The skin tone is pale, accentuated by the dark background and the stark contrast with his attire. His hair is completely absent, emphasizing the aging process and potentially signifying wisdom gained through experience.
Resting on what seems to be a draped surface – likely a table – is a large book, its spine visible but largely obscured by the man’s hand. The placement of the hand upon the volume suggests an engagement with knowledge or religious texts, reinforcing his position as a figure of learning and spiritual authority. However, the gesture is not one of active reading; rather, it appears more contemplative, almost possessive.
The subdued lighting contributes to a somber atmosphere. It highlights certain areas – the face, the folds of the cloak – while leaving others in shadow, creating depth and visual interest. The overall effect is one of restrained grandeur, suggesting a man accustomed to power but perhaps burdened by it.
Subtleties within the painting hint at complexities beyond a straightforward portrait. The slightly averted gaze could indicate humility or a sense of detachment from worldly affairs. The somewhat melancholic expression might suggest an awareness of mortality or the weight of responsibility. The dark background, devoid of any specific setting, contributes to a feeling of isolation and introspection, focusing attention solely on the individual and his internal state.