Portrait of a Man
Jan Baptist Weenix·c. 1650
Historical Context
Jan Baptist Weenix painted this small portrait on copper around 1650, during or shortly after his stay in Italy that profoundly shaped his artistic development. Weenix spent four years in Rome, absorbing the Italianate style that he would practice for the rest of his career. Portrait miniatures on copper were prized for their jewel-like precision and portability, making them suitable as personal keepsakes.
Technical Analysis
The copper support provides an exceptionally smooth surface that allows Weenix's refined brushwork to achieve miniaturist precision. The luminous enamel-like finish and precise detailing of the sitter's features and costume are enhanced by the non-absorbent metallic ground.
Provenance
Ralph Bernal, London (died 1854); his sale, Christie's, London, Mar. 5, 1855, lot 829, as by S.J. 1659 [according to statement attached to the back of the support]. Sir John Ramsden, 6th Bart. (1877-1958), Bulstrode Park, Gerrards Cross, Buckinghamshire; sold, Christie's, London, July 11, 1930, lot 36]. Brian Koetser Gallery, London by 1963 [London 1963]; sold by David Koetser, Zurich to the Art Institute, 1969.
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