Jean Baptiste of Aubonne Tavernier, (1605-1689), baron * David Klöcker Ehrenstråhl (1629-1698)

The portrait presents a man in advanced age, positioned against a dark, indistinct background that emphasizes his figure. He is depicted from the chest upwards, turned slightly towards the viewer, with his left hand resting on a tablet bearing inscribed text. The lighting focuses primarily on his face and upper torso, highlighting the texture of his skin and the folds of his garment.
The man’s features are prominent: deeply etched wrinkles traverse his forehead and surround his eyes, suggesting a life marked by experience and perhaps hardship. His gaze is direct but not overtly engaging; it conveys a sense of introspection or quiet authority. The hair, once likely darker, now appears predominantly white, receding from the temples and framing his face in a somewhat disheveled manner. He wears what appears to be a brown velvet coat with wide sleeves, indicative of status and wealth. A light-colored shirt is visible beneath the coat, adding contrast to the overall color scheme.
The tablet he rests his hand upon is significant. The inscription, though partially obscured by shadow, suggests a formal declaration or epitaph. Its presence implies that this is not merely a likeness but a record of someone of importance, likely intended for posterity. The placement of the hand on the tablet also creates a visual link between the man and his legacy, suggesting he wishes to be remembered through these words.
The subdued color palette – dominated by browns, ochres, and muted tones – contributes to an atmosphere of solemnity and dignity. There is a deliberate lack of ornamentation or background detail, which further concentrates attention on the subject’s character and presence. The artist seems less interested in capturing fleeting beauty than in portraying a man defined by his years and accomplishments.
Subtly, theres a sense of melancholy conveyed through the aging features and the somber setting. It is not an image of triumph or exuberance but rather one that acknowledges the passage of time and the weight of experience. The overall effect is to present a portrait of a man who has lived a full life, marked by both privilege and perhaps some degree of suffering, and who now seeks to leave behind a lasting record of his existence.