Portrait Of Sir John Mennes
1599-1671
Sir John Mennes poses with the ultimate 17th-century swagger in this striking Baroque portrait, sporting the very facial hair style that made his artist famous—the "Van Dyke" beard. Anthony van Dyck, the Flemish master who became the favorite painter of King Charles I, captures the English naval commander in a dazzling pink satin doublet and a striped sash, hinting at his military rank. The loose, expressive brushstrokes bring the shimmering fabric and the glint of his sword to life, perfectly embodying the elegant, aristocratic flair that defined the English court during this era.
Views: 3