Hans Holbein the Elder

Hans Holbein the Elder, born around 1465 in the Imperial Free City of Augsburg and died in 1524 in Isenheim, Alsace, was a German painter associated with the Augsburg school. Holbein was the senior member of a family of painters that included his brother Sigmund and his sons Ambrosius and Hans Holbein the Younger. His early works, such as the Weingarten Altar and the St. Mary, are characterized by deep, rich coloring and balanced compositions. Holbein's career was marked by his ability to blend Gothic and Renaissance influences, creating a unique and influential style that laid the groundwork for future generations of artists. His contributions to German Renaissance painting are celebrated for their technical skill and emotional depth, making him a central figure in the Augsburg school.