Portrait of a Young Man Albrecht Dürer (1471-1528)

The portrait presents a young man depicted in a three-quarter view, his gaze directed slightly off-center, creating a sense of introspection or perhaps a momentary distraction. He is positioned against a dark green background, which serves to isolate the figure and emphasize his features. The subdued color palette contributes to an overall atmosphere of quiet dignity and seriousness.
The man’s attire consists of a dark beret and what appears to be a simple tunic or robe, suggesting a restrained elegance rather than ostentatious wealth. The fabric drapes naturally around his shoulders, indicating attention to detail in the rendering of texture and form. His hair is visible beneath the hat, styled with loose curls that frame his face.
The artist has employed subtle shading techniques to model the man’s features, particularly around the eyes and mouth, lending them a remarkable degree of realism. The skin tone appears pale, suggesting an indoor lifestyle or perhaps a deliberate aesthetic choice. A slight asymmetry in the facial features contributes to the portraits sense of individuality; it avoids idealization and presents a recognizable human presence.
Inscribed above the figure is what seems to be Latin text accompanied by initials, likely providing information about the sitter or the date of creation. The script’s placement at the top of the composition suggests its importance as an integral part of the artworks narrative.
Subtly, theres a sense of melancholy conveyed through the man’s expression and posture. It is not overt sadness, but rather a quiet contemplation that invites speculation about his inner life or circumstances. The averted gaze could be interpreted as shyness, reserve, or perhaps even a hint of world-weariness beyond what one might expect from a young person. Overall, the painting conveys an impression of thoughtful restraint and understated nobility.