English: The commanding view of the port of Ancona, Italy, as a backdrop for this imposing full-length portrait, suggests that this gentleman is a nobleman or possibly a wealthy merchant or official of that city. His elegant but assertive stance with his left hand on his hip, as well as his wife's bejeweled attire in the companion portrait (Walters 37.654), further convey his status. Such paintings were typically commissioned for one of the grand reception rooms of a lavish residence where the owners would greet their visitors. Luigi Primo (also known as Louis Cousin), was one of the many Flemish painters who sought the patronage of wealthy Italians. Flemish artists were thought to be skilled at imitating reality and were therefore in demand as portraitists.