In this interview with renowned Tudor art and cultural historian Professor Elizabeth Goldring, we go beyond the famous portraits of Hans Holbein the Younger and into his fascinating life — exploring the man behind the masterpieces.

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Elizabeth shared with me insights into Holbein’s religion, his journey from Augsburg to Tudor England, how the Shrove Tuesday riots in Basel affected him, plus, his relationships, artistic challenges, and the enduring legacy of his work in British history.

We discussed Holbein's contribution to how we see the Tudor court of Henry VIII, if the Tudors would have been as famous as they are without Holbein and how Holbein was pivotal in the beginnings of art collecting.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Holbein's Impact on Tudor History

00:24 Holbein's Early Life and Artistic Beginnings

01:20 Holbein's Move to England and Court Patronage

02:16 Holbein's Personal Life and Challenges

12:58 The Basel Riots and the Reformation's Impact on Holbein

16:32 Holbein's Role in the Tudor Court and Portraiture

24:33 The Realism and Flattery in Holbein's Portraits

30:17 Holbein's Death and Legacy

49:35 The Roots of Art Collecting and Connoisseurship in England

54:59 Holbein's Influence on Modern Perceptions of the Tudors

What to do next?

Visit a museum to see Holbein's works up close

Buy Elizabeth Goldring's book on Holbein

Explore the history of Tudor portraiture

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About Philippa

Philippa is a Historian and the founder of British History Tours and British History Events.

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Philippa founded award-winning Historic Tour Operator British History Tours in 2014. Find out about these luxury, fully-escorted, immersive historical experiences at BritishHistoryTours.com

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