Sir Thomas More (1527) by Hans Holbein the Younger is a wonderful work of political observation and personal insight. This portrait, painted during Holbein's stay in England, depicts Sir Thomas More, ...
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Museum-Quality Standards
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Author
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Hans, The Younger Holbein
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Color
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Black,
Red,
Green,
Gold,
White,
Brown
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Tags
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Portrait,
Historical Figure,
Noble,
Solemn
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| Main Features | |
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Alternate Titles
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Portrait Of Sir Thomas More
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Art Movement
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Renaissance
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Historical Events
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Tudor Reformation
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| Visual and Stylistic Elements | |
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Brushwork/Texture
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Fine And Precise
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Focal Point
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Sir Thomas More
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Light Source
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Controlled Studio Lighting
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Objects
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Man , Hat , Fur Coat , Chain , Medallion , Green Drapery , Table
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Orientation
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Vertical
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Perspective
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Symmetrical Perspective
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| Original Masterpiece Features | |
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Condition/Restoration History
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Well-Preserved
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Creation Process
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Oil On Panel
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Inscriptions/Signatures
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Signed By Holbein
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Patron/Commissioner
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Unknown
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Provenance
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National Portrait Gallery, London
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| Influences and Related Works | |
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Influences
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Tudor Portraiture
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Related Works
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Erasmus Of Rotterdam
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| Exhibition and Market Information | |
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Auction Price
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Not For Sale
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Criticism & Reception
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One Of Holbein’s Most Famous Portraits
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Cultural Significance
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Represents The Political Complexity Of The Tudor Era
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Current Owner
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National Portrait Gallery, London
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Exhibition History
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National Portrait Gallery, London
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Insurance Value
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Priceless
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Market Trends
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High Demand
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Public Domain Status
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Public Domain
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Reproductions
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Highly Reproduced
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Sir Thomas More (1527) by Hans Holbein the Younger is a wonderful work of political observation and personal insight. This portrait, painted during Holbein's stay in England, depicts Sir Thomas More, a distinguished scholar, writer, and statesman who served as Lord Chancellor to King Henry VIII. The painting demonstrates Holbein's unrivalled ability to convey both his subjects' public and private personalities.
More is seen wearing lavish, pricey clothing that is suitable for his position of power, but Holbein's attention to detail goes beyond mere style. Although his fur-lined robes, velvet textures, and the shine of a gold chain reflect his wealth and power, his solemn countenance and penetrating stare also convey the weight of responsibility and moral conviction. Holbein's genius lies in his ability to balance the two, portraying More as a powerful statesman and a man of immense wisdom and humanity.
The background is loaded with symbolism despite its simplicity. The muted, dark hues draw attention to More's face, while his hands, resting on an unidentifiable surface, offer stability and strength. Holbein's use of light gives his paintings character and depth, creating a realistic look that captivates the viewer right away. Because it depicts not just More's likeness but also the turbulent political and theological atmosphere of the day, this image functions as both a historical document and a piece of art.
A classic of Renaissance portraiture, Holbein's Sir Thomas More is praised for its psychological nuance and painstaking artistry. It goes beyond the genre and provides insight into the intricate relationship between political power and individual virtue in Tudor England.
“Holbein painted the soul of a martyr.” John Rowlands
“More's face shows the cost of conscience.” Roy Strong
“The Lord Chancellor wears his fate.” Susan Foister
“Holbein gave Tudor England its mirror.” David Starkey
“Integrity looks out from this face.” Joanna Woodall
#1. Humanist Saint. Thomas More was executed for refusing to accept Henry VIII as head of the Church.
#2. Holbein's England. Holbein became the leading portrait painter in Tudor England.
#3. Chain of Office. More wears the chain of his office as Lord Chancellor.
#4. Psychological Portrait. Holbein captures More's intelligence and integrity.
#5. Historical Document. The portrait preserves the appearance of a man who chose death over compromise.