The artwork titled “Portrait of Benedetto di Tommaso Portinari” was created by Hans Memling in the year 1487. This piece is an oil painting on wood, categorized within the Northern Renaissance art movement. It measures 45 x 34 cm and belongs to the genre of portraiture. The “Portrait of Benedetto di Tommaso Portinari” forms part of the “Portinari Triptych” series and is currently housed in the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, Italy.
The artwork features a serene portrayal of Benedetto di Tommaso Portinari, depicted with meticulous attention to detail customary of the Northern Renaissance. The subject, a mature male figure, is shown absorbed in the act of reading a book, his gentle gaze indicating contemplation. The background reveals a pastoral scene through an open window, enhancing the sense of depth and serenity. The detailed rendering of his attire, coupled with the intricate textures of the book and the crosier he holds, display Memling’s masterful technique. The subdued yet rich color palette contributes to the overall solemn and introspective mood of the portrait, inviting viewers to ponder the inner life of the subject.
