Fotoreproductie van een portret van John More II door Hans Holbein before 1877

This photo reproduction at the Rijksmuseum captures Hans Holbein's portrait of John More II. Holbein, a German artist working in the 16th century, became known for his portraits of the English elite during the reign of Henry VIII. John More II was the son of Sir Thomas More, a Lord Chancellor known for his humanist ideals and eventual execution for refusing to support Henry VIII's split from the Catholic Church. This portrait exists within a context of immense political and religious upheaval. It reflects not only More's status but also the complexities of identity and allegiance during this time. Notice the subject's averted gaze, which creates a sense of introspection. The soft lines and warm tones evoke a feeling of both dignity and vulnerability. Ultimately, this image serves as a poignant reminder of the intersection between personal identity, family legacy, and the sweeping forces of history.