Hans Holbein the Younger (1497 or 1498-1543) – Dr. John Chambers Kunsthistorisches Museum

The portrait presents a man of considerable age, depicted in three-quarter view against a dark, indistinct background. He is positioned slightly off-center, his gaze directed towards the viewer with a solemn and penetrating intensity. The lighting emphasizes the texture of his skin, highlighting deep lines etched by time and experience around his eyes and mouth. A pronounced furrow dominates his brow, suggesting a contemplative or perhaps burdened disposition.
The man’s attire speaks to a position of authority and learning. He wears a dark cap, likely velvet, and a voluminous fur-lined coat, indicative of wealth and status. The fur itself is rendered with meticulous detail, its individual strands visible, adding a tactile quality to the image. In his hands, he holds a small book or codex, clasped shut; this object serves as a clear symbol of intellectual pursuits and scholarly endeavors.
Inscribed above the figure are Latin phrases: AEATIS (of age) and SVE (of himself), followed by “88”. These inscriptions function as a biographical marker, indicating his age at the time of the portrait’s creation. The deliberate inclusion of these details suggests an interest in documenting not only physical appearance but also the subjects intellectual standing and longevity.
The subdued color palette – dominated by dark browns, blacks, and muted greens – contributes to the overall sense of gravitas and introspection. There is a distinct lack of ornamentation or extraneous detail; the focus remains firmly on the individual’s face and bearing. The artist has skillfully employed chiaroscuro, using contrasts between light and shadow to model the subjects features and create a palpable sense of depth.
Subtly, there is an air of austerity about the man. He does not appear to be smiling or projecting warmth; instead, his expression conveys a quiet dignity and perhaps a hint of melancholy. The painting invites reflection on themes of aging, wisdom, and the burdens of knowledge. It’s a study in character rather than mere likeness, suggesting that the subject is being presented as an exemplar of intellectual virtue and seasoned experience.