Lecture on Holbein's "The Ambassadors"

Introduction

• Artists & Background:
  • Discussion led by Dr. Steven Zucker and Dr. Beth Harris.
  • Focus on Holbein's 1533 painting "The Ambassadors" at the National Gallery, London.
  • Holbein was a Swiss painter who moved to England and became a painter to King Henry VIII.

Historical Context

• Political Climate:
  • King Henry VIII's impending break from the Catholic Church.
  • French Ambassador Jean de Dinteville in England to monitor Henry VIII.
• Subjects:
  • Jean de Dinteville (left) and Georges de Selve (right), both ambassadors and friends.

Analysis of the Painting

• Portrayal of the Subjects:
  • Jean de Dinteville: Wealthy, adorned in fur-lined cloak; holds a dagger with his age (29) inscribed.
  • Georges de Selve: Dressed modestly, with elbow on a book, indicating contemplative life.

Central Objects and Symbolism

• Grid Composition:
  • Left: Active life; Right: Contemplative life.
  • Top: Celestial sphere; Bottom: Terrestrial sphere.
• Objects:
  • Top shelf: Astronomical instruments, references to the heavens.
  • Lower shelf: Earthly objects such as a terrestrial globe, a lute (with a broken string), and a hymn book.

Symbolic Interpretations

• Discord Symbolism:
  • Broken string on lute reflects discord in Europe and the church.
  • Open hymn book with Martin Luther’s hymn symbolizes Protestant Reformation.

Anamorphic Image

• Skull Representation:
  • Anamorphic skull appears distorted unless viewed from a specific angle.
  • Traditional symbol of death: Memento mori.
  • Contrasts with earthly achievements depicted in the painting.

Contrast and Illusion

• Representation:
  • Holbein contrasts realistic earthly objects with distorted supernatural elements.
  • Lute and skull both represent distortions, questioning the nature of reality and truth.

Themes and Reflections

• Limits of Human Knowledge:
  • The painting explores the limits of human achievements and knowledge.
  • Hidden elements like the crucifixion sculpture and the skull remind viewers of mortality and the promise of Christ’s sacrifice.