Final answer:
The portrait is likely of the artist Correggio, who is associated with the Parma Cathedral. His work is well-known for the dramatic use of light, which influenced later Baroque artists. Other significant Renaissance artists mentioned are Giorgione, Titian, Masaccio, and Giuseppe Arcimboldo.
Step-by-step explanation:
The portrait described is most likely to be of Correggio, a renowned painter who worked on the Parma Cathedral. This Renaissance artist, whose real name was Antonio Allegri, was known for his frescoes in the cathedral. It is notable that Correggio’s work often showcased dramatic use of light and innovative compositions, which had a significant influence on later Baroque artists. The portrayal of a figure wearing a cloak and beard can signify wisdom and respect, common attributes for artists of the time depicted in their self-portraits or in commission works where they might be included as a character.
Another important Renaissance artist to consider could be Giorgione or even Titian, as the two were also prominent figures in Italian painting, and their works have been often confused due to stylistic similarities. However, since the Parma Cathedral is explicitly mentioned, Correggio remains the most likely subject of the portrait.
It is also important to note works of other artists like Masaccio, known for his contributions to the use of perspective, and Giuseppe Arcimboldo, recognized for his imaginative portraits creating human faces out of objects such as fruits, vegetables, and flowers. The evolution of portrait artistry during the Renaissance was indeed marked by these innovations.