Johannes Kleberger (1486-1546) Albrecht Dürer (1471-1528)

The portrait presents a man depicted within a circular frame, characteristic of Renaissance commemorative medallions. He is shown in a three-quarter view, his gaze directed slightly off-center, conveying a sense of quiet contemplation rather than direct engagement with the viewer. The sitter’s dark hair, neatly trimmed and receding from the forehead, frames a face marked by subtle modeling that emphasizes bone structure and a somewhat melancholic expression. A light source illuminates the left side of his face, creating soft shadows that contribute to the overall impression of depth and realism.
The artist has rendered the skin tones with considerable skill, employing delicate gradations to suggest volume and texture. The man’s attire is simple: a high-necked garment in a muted tone, indicative perhaps of modesty or status. Around the perimeter of the circular frame, an inscription runs along a dark band, its legibility obscured but suggesting a dedication or biographical information intended for posterity.
Below the portrait, small emblems are positioned – one appears to be a stylized flower and the other a heraldic crest. These elements likely hold symbolic meaning related to the sitter’s identity, family, or profession; their precise interpretation would require further contextual knowledge. The placement of these symbols at the base of the composition suggests they are integral to understanding the portraits intended message.
The overall effect is one of restrained dignity and intellectual seriousness. It is a formal representation designed not merely to capture likeness but also to convey something about the sitter’s character or position within his community. The circular format, combined with the inscription and emblems, reinforces the notion that this is a carefully constructed memorial intended to preserve the memory of the individual for future generations.