Hans Holbein the Younger and Humanism (Northern Renaissance) - 'Anne of Cleves' Analysis
While the Italian Renaissance produced many amazing sculptures and frescoes paintings, ideas such as humanism spread up to northern Europe. There, artists newly perfecting oil paints began creating amazingly realistic works of art. Hans Holbein the Younger was active from 1515-1543 and was one of the most notable artists for portrait paintings. His work with portraits begun to stand out due to his use of accessories, ability to bring character into the portrait's face, and strong silhouettes. He was associated with a humanist group of acquaintances, one of his most famous works was his portrait of Sir Thomas More, author of Utopia. Humanist ideas and theories, the philosophy focusing on human's individual and social potential without the need for supernatural elements, worked their way into Holbein's artwork. Holbein had given up almost all religious painting by around 1530. With his rise in popularity for his portrait commission...