Portrait of Cardinal Niccolò Albergati

Jan van Eyck

1435

Portrait of Cardinal Niccolò Albergati by Jan van Eyck, 1435

Jan van Eyck created this remarkably lifelike sketch in 1435 during a diplomatic trip to Italy, likely because the Cardinal was too impatient to sit for a full painting session. Using silverpoint on prepared paper, Van Eyck captured the man's gentle expression and textured skin with incredible speed and precision. This drawing served as the study for a famous oil portrait, showing us that even a quick sketch can be a masterpiece of observation.

Technique
Silverpoint
Material
Paper
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