1540 Portrait of Henry VIII Hans The Younger Holbein

Description of Hans Holbein’s painting Henry 8

Hans Holbein placed much emphasis on conveying the plastic properties of objects and the formation of light. He was attracted to the materials that were made of the things he depicted. He was very skillful in conveying in a painting the accessories, the clothing that surrounds a person. He went down in the history of painting as a very important master of portraiture.

When the religious wars were going on, Holbein moved to England. And there for many years he served at the court as a court painter. His work "Portrait of Henry VIII" is the only portrait by this master that has survived to this day.

King Henry VIII of England was a very controversial figure. He was very capable in the sciences, music. He was able to play several instruments, he had a beautiful voice. During the 38 years of his reign many memorable events occurred, and above all the fact that he had six wives, two of whom he ordered beheaded.

The suit of the king depicted has buttons, jewelry made of gold, and a background created with a very precious in those days, blue pigment (ultramarine).

Without knowing who is depicted, it is immediately evident by his posture, clothing, jewelry, that a very noble person is depicted. The king was of large build. He had a very proud, straight posture, held a glove in his half-bent hand and had rings on both hands. In his eyes one can guess intelligence, firmness of character, a certain experience of life. His face itself reflects little of any emotion, which may indicate his slight reticence.

His compressed and thin lips show that he is vain and seeks quickly to achieve what he wants. Such a person is always serious about his intentions.

The lower lip is thicker than the upper, which indicates the ability to persuade, the ability to focus on business. It is said of such a person that he likes more deeds, less words.