Portrait of a Man

Such an arresting and intense gaze is often associated with self-portraits, and it is possible that this was painted by the English artist, Isaac Fuller (c.1606–72). The portrait shares the long nose, elegantly tapering fingers and dishevelled locks found in other paintings and drawings believed to depict him. The head is dramatically lit, creating a shadow on one side of the face that is accentuated with warm flesh tones, their rosy hue used to highlight a few curls in the mass of chestnut hair. The expressive skyscape once extended behind the sitter’s head but deterioration in the original paint has led to discolouration. Beneath the elegant hand is the suggestion of a classical sculpture. The loosely sketched button loops on the sitter’s open collar hint at a disregard for restraint. The resulting effect is casual and informal, suggesting a person with an equally unrestrained character.

The slightly wild and loose nature of this painting is in keeping with the reputation of its possible sitter. Fuller liked to frequent taverns where he not only drank but was also occasionally employed as an interior decorator, painting historical schemes, such as a series of life-sized mythological figures on the walls of The Mitre in Fenchurch Street, London. His skills extended from tavern interiors to theatrical stage sets and ceilings in private houses, none of which survive. The few portraits that exist are fresh and expressive, often using classical poses and dramatic lighting in a similar way to this portrait, with refined hands that are almost a hallmark of his style.