Portrait of Mary Wotton, Lady Guildenford 1527

Hans Holbein the Younger's "Portrait of Mary Wotton, Lady Guildenford" (1527) is a striking example of Northern Renaissance portraiture. The painting showcases Holbein's mastery of realism, depicting Lady Guildenford with remarkable detail, from her intricately patterned headdress to the delicate folds of her dress. Her stern gaze and the prominent rosary beads in her hand suggest a woman of piety and authority. The architectural background, with its Roman column, further emphasizes her elevated status and signifies the importance of the sitter. Currently housed in the Kunstmuseum Basel, this portrait stands as a testament to Holbein's skill in capturing the individuality and dignity of his subjects.