Portrait of a man Albrecht Dürer (1471-1528)

The portrait presents a male subject in a three-quarter view, set against a dark, nearly featureless background. The composition is tightly focused on his face and upper torso, emphasizing a sense of directness and intimacy. He wears a simple, folded head covering of a muted reddish-brown hue, which frames his face and draws attention to his features.
The man’s expression is complex; it conveys a mixture of seriousness and perhaps a touch of melancholy. His gaze is directed slightly off-center, suggesting introspection or an awareness beyond the immediate viewer. The artist has rendered skin tones with considerable realism, capturing subtle variations in color and texture – a slight flush on his cheeks, the shadows beneath his eyes, and the faint discoloration around his mouth. These details contribute to a sense of verisimilitude and psychological depth.
The clothing appears functional rather than ostentatious; a simple tunic or shirt with a slightly open collar reveals a glimpse of the neck. The limited color palette – dominated by earth tones and browns – reinforces the overall impression of restraint and sobriety. A numeral 5 is visible in the upper left corner, likely indicating the century of creation (the 15th).
Subtly, the portrait suggests an individual of some standing or importance, though not necessarily one defined by overt displays of wealth. The lack of elaborate ornamentation and the directness of his gaze imply a certain humility or perhaps a desire to be perceived as genuine and unpretentious. The slightly asymmetrical features and the realistic depiction of imperfections contribute to a sense of individuality; this is not an idealized representation, but rather a study of a specific person with their unique characteristics. The overall effect is one of quiet dignity and understated character.