COSSA, Francesco del
(b. ca. 1435, Ferrara, d. ca. 1477, Bologna)

Portrait of a Man with a Ring

1472-77
Oil on panel, 39 x 28 cm
Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza, Madrid

The identity of the sitter is unknown. However, the panel clearly depicts a real person who wished to have his portrait painted, perhaps as a record of his engagement, which would explain the ring which he intends to give to his betrothed.

The present painting is a rare example of Cossa's work as a portraitist.