Elliott Best
"Portrait of Georg Giese" by Hans Holbein the Younger, 1532.
"Portrait of Georg Giese" by Hans Holbein the Younger, 1532.
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- Masterful Realism: Holbein's meticulous brushwork is evident in the rendering of textures, from the sumptuous red silk sleeves and fur-lined black coat to the delicate glass vase and intricate pattern of the Turkish rug.
- Symbolic Depth: The painting is rich with allegorical details that speak to Giese's life and status. A vase of carnations may symbolize his engagement, while a small clock and a personal motto, "No joy without sorrow," allude to the passage of time and the transient nature of life.
- Historical Significance: This portrait is considered a "virtuoso showpiece" and an important document of the emerging merchant class in the 1530s. The letters and documents featured prominently identify Giese and highlight his extensive trade network.
Holbein's "Portrait of Georg Giese" is rich with symbolism. The painting, a gift for his fiancée, is filled with items that reflect the subject's profession and personal life. Objects like the account book, scales, and letters highlight Giese's status as a wealthy Hanseatic merchant with a global trade network. The valuable Oriental rug on his desk further emphasizes his success. More personal symbols include the carnations, believed to represent engagement, and a motto, "No joy without sorrow," which may allude to the melancholy of being separated from his love. A clock and the perishable flowers serve as a memento mori, reminding the viewer of the transient nature of life and time.
Artwork Details
From our studio to your space, we follow a carefully crafted 10-step production process to ensure your masterpiece looks extraordinary when it arrives.
- Your artwork is created on museum-quality, acid-free archival paper.
- Printed in Canada. Your order ships in 5-7 business days after final quality checks are completed.
- Please inquire about our RUSH project services.
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Read about our approach to quality and what makes Elliott Best artwork extraordinary.
*Frames not included. Mock-up dimensions approximate.
