Title: A Bearded Man

Artist: Giovanni Domenico

A Bearded Man Wearing a Turban 1758–60 Giovanni Domenico Tiepolo Italian, 1727–1804 Oil on canvas This arresting and beautifully preserved head study is one of several portraits Tiepolo painted of fictional bearded men in outlandish costumes, who likely represent ancient philosophers. The figure’s immediate and dazzling presence is enhanced by vivid, energetic brushwork. Rapid zigzag marks denote the man’s beard and the folds of his turban, while swift, broad strokes indicate the gold stripes of his robe. The artist made the group of works for an open market of collectors and visitors to Venice from abroad.