A Man, probably of the Strauss Family
- Artist: Bartholomeus Bruyn the Elder
- Date: probably 1533
- Medium: oil on wood
- Museum: The National Gallery
- Collection record: The National Gallery website
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About this artwork
This is the "A Man, probably of the Strauss Family" painted in the German north by Bartholomeus Bruyn the Elder. It's a portrait of a man, likely from a wealthy family, with a few subtle clues about his identity.
Notice the ring on his left forefinger - it appears to show the arms of the Strauss family, which might suggest that he's a member of this clan. However, another theory is that this could be Andreas zum Kampe, but based on the age in the portrait, it seems unlikely.
In his right hand, he's holding a piece of paper with a verse from Isaiah chapter 40 inscribed on it. The text reads: "The word of our God shall stand for ever". It's not uncommon for people to carry these sorts of quotes as a reminder or a symbol of their faith.
The painting itself is quite well-preserved, given its age - around 90 years old when it was likely created in the early 1530s. The medium used here is oil on wood, which gives it a distinctive look and feel.
See it in person
A Man, probably of the Strauss Family hangs in The National Gallery on Trafalgar Square, London — free to enter. Point your phone at any artwork there and audioguide.london plays a free audio guide in six languages — no app download needed.
