Hans Holbein the Younger (1497 or 1498-1543) – Portrait of a Young Merchant, probably Hans von Muffel of Nuremberg, age 28 Kunsthistorisches Museum

The composition presents a man in three-quarter view against a muted green backdrop. He is positioned centrally within the frame, his gaze directed towards the viewer with a directness that establishes immediate engagement. The artist has rendered him at approximately twenty-eight years of age, as indicated by the inscription visible on the upper right portion of the canvas.
The man’s attire speaks volumes about his social standing and profession. He is clad in a dark, fur-lined coat over a white linen shirt with a delicate lace collar. The hat, also trimmed with fur, further emphasizes his affluence. His hands are meticulously depicted; one holds a small, ornate tobacco pipe, while the other rests upon a table laden with objects that suggest mercantile activity. These include what appear to be ledgers or account books, a writing instrument, and a small, dark container – possibly for ink or precious stones. The careful arrangement of these items reinforces his identity as a merchant.
The lighting is carefully controlled, highlighting the man’s face and hands while leaving the background in relative shadow. This technique draws attention to his features and the objects he holds, emphasizing their significance. His expression is complex; it conveys both confidence and a certain guardedness. Theres an absence of overt joviality or warmth, suggesting a pragmatic and perhaps somewhat reserved personality.
The inscription Anno Dni 1541 (in the year of our Lord 1541) provides a specific temporal context for the portrait, anchoring it within the early sixteenth century. The inclusion of his age alongside the date serves not only as identification but also as a marker of his position at a particular stage in life – a young man on the cusp of established adulthood and potential prosperity.
Subtly, the painting conveys an impression of burgeoning wealth and social mobility. The meticulous detail afforded to the fabrics and objects suggests a deliberate effort to showcase status and success. However, the somewhat austere presentation also hints at a sense of responsibility and perhaps even anxiety associated with maintaining that position. The overall effect is one of carefully constructed self-representation – a portrait intended not merely as a likeness but as a statement about identity and place within a rapidly changing society.