Portrait of Christina of Denmark
Jacopo Tintoretto·1556
Historical Context
Tintoretto's portrait of Christina of Denmark from around 1556 depicts the same subject as Holbein's famous portrait, though showing the duchess at a later date. The painting reflects Tintoretto's growing reputation as a portraitist alongside his more famous narrative paintings. Showing the duchess at a later date than Holbein's more famous portrait, Tintoretto's version demonstrates his growing reputation as a portraitist capable of handling dynastic commissions.
Technical Analysis
The dark costume and dignified pose create an image of aristocratic reserve, with Tintoretto's bold brushwork and warm flesh tones lending vitality to the formal court portrait format.
Look Closer
- ◆Notice the dark costume and dignified pose that create an image of aristocratic reserve appropriate to a court portrait.
- ◆Look at the bold brushwork and warm flesh tones that lend vitality to the formal conventions of dynastic portraiture.
- ◆Observe how Tintoretto's portrait differs from Holbein's famous earlier version — later in life, differently characterized.
- ◆The restrained palette and composed bearing present Christina as a woman of dignity and intelligence.
- ◆Find the individual quality of the face beneath the official presentation — Tintoretto's portraits always reach the person.
