The artwork titled “Portrait of Bonifacius Amerbach” was created by Hans Holbein the Younger in 1519, during the Northern Renaissance period in Germany. Crafted using oil on wood, this portrait measures 28.5 x 27.4 cm and currently resides in the Kunstmuseum Basel in Basel, Switzerland.
The artwork showcases a finely detailed depiction of Bonifacius Amerbach, who is portrayed in a three-quarter profile. The sitter dons a black hat and a modest dark garment with a white collar, exuding a contemplative and poised demeanor. The background features a verdant setting, with hints of foliage and a serene blue sky, adding depth and context to the figure’s expression. The rich texture and lifelike representation of the subject exemplify Holbein’s mastery in capturing human features and emotions, characteristic of the Northern Renaissance’s emphasis on realism and individuality. A wooden plaque with Latin inscriptions, positioned to the left of Amerbach, provides an intellectual gravitas to the portrait and highlights the scholarly nature of the sitter. The detail and skill evident in the work reflect Holbein’s significant contribution to portrait artistry during this era.
