Christoph Willibald von Gluck

Gluck (1724–1787), who reformed the genre of opera by creating modern dramatic musical theatre, is presented in a staged, official setting at the harpsichord. Nevertheless, this is probably the most convincing portrait of a musician ever painted. The composer – with his pockmarked face turned upwards – has paused in a moment of inspiration. Here mental and emotional content including enthusiasm have been organically integrated in a formal portrait.