The “Portrait of a Man with a Red Hat” was painted by Titian in 1515, shortly after his return to Venice from Padua. Still showing the influence of his teacher, Giorgione, Titian masterfully manipulates paint to create the illusion of gold satin, plush fur, and a striking red felt fashionable hat. The identity of the sitter is unknown, and his distant gaze and hand lazily resting on the hilt of his sword produce a sense of lyrical mystery. It is one of the many Italian Renaissance masterpieces in the Frick Collection in New York City. Buona visione!