Expressive Art- Hans Holbein

Question 1

(HH) Date and title of artwork

Answer 1

1533, Thomas Cromwell

Question 2

(HH) Emotions, atmosphere, feelings

Answer 2

Holbein was renowned for painting everything as he saw it
The painting is unsympathetic
Holbein was driven by reason and not emotion
Cromwell looks hard and as though he has a charmless presence
This portrait is almost viciously mocking
Cromwell’s eyes appear too small for his enflamed face

Question 3

(HH) techniques, methods and approaches

Answer 3

Painted wet- in - wet
It is possible he may have used pouncing which was popular at that time
He also used coloured chalks
Very close attention to detail

Question 4

(HH) media

Answer 4

Oil paints and an oak panel

Question 5

(HH) style and art movement

Answer 5

Renaissance style work

Inspired by Leonardo Da Vinci

Question 6

(HH) message/ narrative

Answer 6

Thomas Cromwell has a blank facial expression, and his eyes are peering forward
The impression is given that Cromwell was a cold and hostile and almost sneaky man

Question 7

(HH) composition and visual elements

Answer 7

Holbein uses dark, deep colours to symbolise wealth
Cromwell is all in black and portrayed in a simple setting
Fine things in the background such as wooden panelling represent an interest in luxury

Question 8

(HH) subject matter

Answer 8

Thomas Cromwell, a statesman