Portrait of a Man Dressed in Black c. 1675

Nicolaes Maes's "Portrait of a Man Dressed in Black" (c. 1675) is a captivating oil-on-canvas portrait that showcases the Dutch Golden Age painter's masterful command of chiaroscuro. The painting depicts a middle-aged man, likely a prominent citizen, dressed in somber black clothing with a crisp white collar. His face is rendered with remarkable detail, revealing his weathered features and piercing blue eyes. The subtle brushstrokes and rich tones contribute to the painting's sense of realism and depth. Now housed in the Städel Museum, this portrait stands as a testament to Maes's skill in capturing the character and individuality of his subjects.