(In the Louvre)
This marvellous piece of portraiture dates from the year 1523.
Holbein painted many portraits of his friend and patron, and at
least three belong to this year, one being at Longford Castle.
A study for the one reproduced here may be seen in the Basle
Museum. The great scholar is treated with a master-hand. Pallid
skin, greying hair, dark clothes, and brown panelling go to the
making of wonderful colour harmony.
[Illustration]