Hans Holbein, Henry VIII

The last great German painter of the High Renaissance was Hans Holbein the Younger (1497-1543). He combined German linear technique with the fifteenth-century Northern taste for elaborately detailed surface textures and rich color patterns. Perhaps his greatest achievements were his portraits. In 1532, Holbein became the court painter to Henry VIII. His Henry VIII of about 1540 portrays the overpowering force of the king’s personality.

Henry’s proverbial bulk dominates the picture as he stares directly out at the observer. The fine textures and minute patterns of his costume create a surface luster that is reminiscent of van Eyck. Henry’s bent right arm is posed so that the elbow is thrust forward, emphasizing the elaborate sleeves. From the neck down, the king’s body forms a rectangle filling the lower two-thirds of the picture. His head seems directly placed on his shoulders, creating a small, almost cubic shape. The hat, by contrast, forms a slightly curved diagonal, echoing the chain across his chest and also softening the monumental force of Henry’s body and gesture.

The main source of variety in this picture is in the material quality of the surface patterns. Their richness is calculated to remind viewers of Henry’s wealth, just as his pose exudes power, self-confidence, and determination, while his face reflects his intelligence and political acumen. In this image, therefore, Holbein has fused formal character with a specific personality, creating a Henry VIII who is “every inch a king.”^[1]