Amazon.com Book Description (ISBN 0500093180, Hardcover)

Hans Holbein's psychological insight, magisterial compositions, and cool palette ensure his status as one of the greatest European painters. Published to accompany a major exhibition at the Mauritshuis in The Hague, the book concentrates on the period beginning in 1532, when Holbein settled in England.

From 1536 Holbein was court painter to King Henry VIII and immortalized not only the king himself but also several of Henry's prospective spouses, actual wives, and children. Holbein also drew and painted other prominent figures, including German merchants in London, ambassadors, and members of the English court. After almost 400 years, these portraits have lost none of their profoundly expressive power: Holbein was among the first artists to portray people as flesh and blood, as strong and decisive personalities who continue to intrigue and move us.

In her introductory essay, Stephanie Buck discusses Holbein's activities as a portraitist. She explores the pivotal role Erasmus played in Holbein's early career, and the later English period during which he portrayed the royals and their circle. Jochen Sander's essay sheds new light on the creation of the Darmstadt Madonna. The book is completed by a Who's Who that explains figures and essential ideas and movements necessary for a complete understanding of Holbein's milieu. 180 illustrations, 60 in color.