Predella of the High Altarpiece of the Dominican Church in Frankfurt 1501

Hans Holbein the Elder completed this oil on wood panel for the Dominican Church in Frankfurt sometime around the early 16th century. Holbein and his workshop would have prepared the wooden surface, layering it with gesso to create a smooth, receptive ground for painting. Looking closely, you'll notice the careful application of paint, with fine brushes used to render the figures and their garments. The smooth, almost enamel-like surface speaks to the artist's mastery of oil painting techniques, which were still relatively new in Northern Europe at this time. But what interests me most is the collaborative nature of this kind of project. While Holbein may have been responsible for the overall design and execution, he likely relied on assistants to complete certain aspects of the work. Consider the division of labor inherent in the production of a large-scale altarpiece like this. There was the felling and preparation of the wood, the grinding of pigments, and the application of gold leaf. When we recognize this skilled work, we can see the Predella not just as a religious image, but as a product of collective effort and a testament to the rich artistic traditions of the time.