Portrait of a young man with tricorn * Vittore Giuseppe Ghislandi (1655-1743)

The portrait presents a youthful male figure in a three-cornered hat, viewed in a half-length composition. The subject is positioned at a slight angle to the viewer, his gaze directed over the shoulder with a hint of self-assurance and perhaps a touch of playful defiance. His expression is complex; it’s not entirely neutral but rather suggests an internal thoughtfulness or amusement.
The artist has employed a technique that emphasizes directness and immediacy. Brushstrokes are visible, particularly in the rendering of the hair and the folds of the clothing, contributing to a sense of spontaneity. The lighting is dramatic, with strong contrasts between light and shadow highlighting the planes of the face and creating a palpable volume. A concentrated beam illuminates the left side of his face, drawing attention to the subtle nuances of expression around the eyes and mouth.
The tricorn hat dominates the upper portion of the composition, its dark color providing a stark contrast against the lighter tones of the skin. The vibrant red plume attached to the hat introduces a splash of color that draws the eye and adds a note of formality or perhaps military association. The clothing appears simple but well-made, suggesting a person of some means.
The background is almost entirely dark, which serves to isolate the figure and intensify his presence. This lack of contextual detail encourages close scrutiny of the subject’s features and demeanor.
Subtly, theres an air of informality that contrasts with the formality suggested by the hat. The slightly parted lips and the inclination of the head suggest a relaxed posture, hinting at a personality that is both confident and approachable. It could be interpreted as a depiction of someone caught in a moment of reflection or perhaps engaged in a private thought. The overall impression is one of youthful vitality combined with an understated sense of status and intelligence.