The artwork “Portrait of Cardinal Carlo de’ Medici” is a painting by Andrea Mantegna, dated to 1466. This Early Renaissance portrait was created using tempera on wood and measures 30 x 41 cm. It is currently housed at the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, Italy. The genre of the painting is a portrait, depicting the individual with a sense of realism and depth that reflects the styles and techniques characteristic of the Renaissance period.
In the painting, we see a head-and-shoulders view of the Cardinal, who is dressed in a vibrant red garment that has a high degree of textural detail, hinting at the luxurious quality of the fabric. He is depicted with a solemn, contemplative expression on his face. His eyes are gazing off to the left, giving the viewer an impression of introspective thought or concern. The Cardinal is wearing a red zucchetto (a small, rounded skullcap), which signifies his ecclesiastical status. The background of the portrait is a simple, dark color which serves to highlight the figure without distraction, emphasizing his facial features and attire. The painting is notable for its realistic portrayal and the sitter’s strong presence captured by Mantegna’s precise brushwork.
