Goldsmith Jorg Zurer of Augsburg WGA Christoph Amberger

The portrait presents a man in what appears to be a formal setting, his gaze directed towards the viewer with a measured intensity. He is positioned centrally within the composition, against a dark, neutral background that emphasizes his figure and attire. The lighting is carefully orchestrated; it illuminates his face and upper torso while leaving the lower portion of the frame in shadow, creating depth and drawing attention to the details of his presentation.
The man’s clothing conveys status and wealth. A voluminous fur-trimmed coat drapes over his shoulders, its texture rendered with a remarkable degree of realism. Beneath this, a crisp white shirt collar is visible, fastened with what seems to be a lace or embroidered detail. The broad-brimmed hat, adorned with decorative bands, further reinforces the impression of prosperity and social standing.
His facial features are meticulously depicted: a full beard, neatly trimmed, frames a face marked by age but retaining an air of authority. A ring is prominently displayed on his left hand, another indicator of his economic position. The hands themselves are rendered with attention to detail, showing the texture of the skin and the subtle curve of the fingers as they rest upon each other.
Above the man’s head, inscribed in Roman numerals, are the dates MDXXXI (1531) and “ÆTATIS XXXI” (age 31), providing a specific point in his life when this portrait was created. This inscription serves not only as a record but also as an element of self-presentation, asserting his age and potentially implying maturity and experience.
Beyond the straightforward depiction of a man’s appearance, the painting suggests themes of civic identity and professional accomplishment. The formality of the pose and attire implies a desire to be perceived as respectable and successful within his community. The careful attention to detail in rendering both clothing and facial features speaks to an awareness of self-image and a wish to project a particular persona. It is likely that this portrait was intended to serve as a testament to his standing, perhaps for display within his home or workshop, signifying his place within the social fabric of Augsburg.