Portrait of Henry Brandon 1541

Hans Holbein the Younger painted this miniature portrait of Henry Brandon in 1541, using watercolour on vellum. Holbein was a master of capturing likeness, but his portraits also speak volumes about the sitter's social standing and the cultural values of Tudor England. Here, young Henry is dressed in expensive fabrics, and his serious expression conveys a sense of responsibility beyond his years. The inscription he holds tells us he is three years old. The Brandon family was close to the Tudor monarchy and had a great influence in the court. The creation of such a miniature speaks to the culture of gift-giving and courtly exchange that operated in royal circles. Holbein's position as court painter gave him a unique insight into the lives of the elite, and his art became a tool for shaping their public image. Understanding this portrait requires us to look beyond the surface and consider the complex web of social, political, and economic forces that shaped its creation. We can use sources such as letters, inventories, and other documents to further understand the world in which Holbein and his sitters lived.