In contrast to the aristocratic portraits on the opposite wall, this sitter is in civilian clothes, including a sword, and cannot be identified by nationality or precise social rank. Moroni’s innovations in portraiture include his subjects’ frank naturalism, such as this man’s ruddy cheeks, and their novel way of engaging the viewer, in this case, with a highly skeptical expression.

Giovanni Battista Moroni, 16th century,
Worcester Art Museum, Worcester, MA, 12/01/19