Sir Thomas More

The painting Sir Thomas More by Hans Holbein the Younger, housed at the Cleveland Museum of Art, is an oil on wood panel mounted in a decorative gilt wood frame. While Holbein (d. 1543) created the definitive portrait of the famed English humanist and statesman, this particular version is categorized culturally as German and dates from the 17th century (1600-1699). This classification suggests the piece is a high-quality contemporary copy produced decades after Younger’s original design, demonstrating the immediate and enduring popularity of his compositions throughout Northern Europe.

The work faithfully replicates the Renaissance master's style, utilizing oil paint applied meticulously to the wood support. Younger was celebrated for his ability to convey the intellectual gravitas and psychological depth of his sitters through meticulous realism, a quality that is preserved in this German iteration. The composition emphasizes More's severe, dark attire, symbolizing his status and dedication, contrasting subtly with the detailed texture of his fur collar.

The production of such authoritative copies in 17th-century Germany underscores the international renown of Holbein and the continuous demand for visual records of pivotal historical figures like Sir Thomas More. This piece serves as an important reference point for understanding the dissemination of major Renaissance portraiture across the continent. Residing in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art, this painting ensures the iconic image remains accessible to the public. High-resolution prints of the work are often available through public domain resources, allowing further academic examination of the painting’s material and cultural history.