Michael Mayer c. 1800

Johann Baptist von Lampi the Elder was a prominent Austrian portrait painter, best known for his elegant and lifelike portrayals of high society individuals. This portrait of Michael Mayer, dating back to around 1800, exemplifies Lampi’s mastery of the Neoclassical style, characterized by its refined details and emphasis on idealized beauty. Mayer is depicted in formal attire, with a fur-trimmed coat and a chain of medals signifying his social status. The painting’s composition, featuring a close-up view of the subject and a simple, yet elegant background, further underscores the Neoclassical aesthetic.