The artwork “Portrait of Thomas Cromwell” is an oil on panel painting created by the renowned German artist Hans Holbein the Younger, dating to approximately 1533. This exquisite piece is attributed to the Northern Renaissance movement and it stands at a size of 61 x 76 cm. This artwork is a portrait by genre, and it currently resides within the esteemed collection of the Frick Collection in New York City, New York, United States.
The artwork presents a strikingly lifelike depiction of Thomas Cromwell, who is positioned against a deep blue background, embellished with a subtle pattern that showcases the artist’s meticulous attention to detail. Cromwell is portrayed from a three-quarter angle, facing to his right, the gaze serious and contemplative. His visage exhibits the characteristic features of determination and intelligence, traits often associated with the historical figure.
Cromwell’s costume is rendered with the same precision and care, reflective of his status and the fashion of the time. He dons a fur-lined robe, indicative of his high social position, while his black cap adds to the formal nature of the portrait. His hands are prominently positioned, one tucked into the robe and the other resting on an adorned desk. The desk itself becomes a still life within the portrait, featuring an open letter, a quill, and an intricately designed box, perhaps hinting at Cromwell’s occupation and the matters of state in his charge.
Overall, the artwork exudes a sense of quiet authority, the colors are subdued yet richly applied, illustrating the artist’s skill in capturing both the character’s likeness and the gravity of his role in history. Holbein’s remarkable talent for realism coupled with his ability to convey the sitter’s personality remains evident in this masterful rendition.
