Charles Brandon, Duke of Suffolk 1 - 1797

Francesco Bartolozzi created this stipple engraving, Charles Brandon, Duke of Suffolk, in 1791 after an original painting by Hans Holbein. As an Italian artist working in England, Bartolozzi navigated the complexities of artistic exchange and cultural identity in 18th-century Europe. This image represents Charles Brandon, a prominent figure in the court of King Henry VIII. Brandon's close relationship with the King and his marriage to Henry's sister, Mary Tudor, placed him at the center of Tudor power dynamics. Yet, the portrait also encapsulates the contradictions inherent in representations of masculinity and power during this time. While Brandon held significant influence, his position was always contingent on the King's favor, illustrating the precarious nature of courtly life. By reproducing Holbein’s original painting, Bartolozzi engages in a dialogue across centuries, reflecting on themes of legacy, representation, and the enduring fascination with historical figures. The emotional depth of the piece lies in its ability to evoke a sense of intimacy with a figure from the past, inviting viewers to contemplate the complexities of identity, power, and representation.