Portrait of a Standing Man 1645

Frans Hals made this portrait of a standing man with oil on canvas, with a striking effect. Hals’ technique was all about capturing the immediacy of life. Look closely, and you will see his rapid brushwork, the quick flicks and dabs of paint that bring the figure to life. It is as if the artist has captured a fleeting moment, full of vigor. The man's confident stance and the lively expression on his face are heightened by the texture and movement in the paint. Hals’ loose, energetic style was quite radical for his time. Most artists carefully blended their brushstrokes to create smooth, idealized surfaces. Hals was more interested in conveying a sense of realness, a living presence. His approach broke down the traditional hierarchy between the skill of the artisan and the imagination of the artist. By foregrounding the act of painting, Hals elevated the craft to new heights of expressiveness.