Portrait of a Man 1569 - 1575

"Portrait of a Man" is a classic example of the elongated figures and dramatic use of color characteristic of El Greco's style. Painted between 1569 and 1575, this work captures the artist's unique vision, bridging the gap between Venetian Renaissance and Mannerist influences. The subject's pose, with a book resting on a pedestal, suggests a learned individual, while the intense gaze and elongated proportions contribute to the work's striking and emotional presence. El Greco, born Domenikos Theotokopoulos, was known for his distinctive artistic vision, departing from conventional realism and embracing a more expressive style, characterized by vibrant colors and dramatic compositions.