Portrait painting, Renaissance--England--16th century
Portrait painting, English--England--16th century
Portrait painting, German--England--16th century
As painter of the English court, the upper nobility and cultural leaders, Hans Holbein counts as the leading portraitist of his day. The Hanseatic businessmen residing in the London Steelyard also knew how to employ Holbein's great talent to their own ends. The portraits painted by him testify to their prestigious ambitions and their desire to have themselves presented as well-to-do and honorable members of their class.