Portrait of Bernhard von Reesen

This painting is a characteristic work of Dürer's late period. Not only is it painted on an oak panel, which was common in Holland at the time, although rare in Nuremberg, but the painting also clearly shows the influence of Dutch portraiture in its portrayal and expression. It is a portrait bust, representing the head and chest of the sitter, who holds a letter in his hands. The portrait's identification was made possible by the legible first name, Bernhard, written on the letter in German.