Erasmus (Didier Erasme)

1863

From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art

Dominant colour

Erasmus (Didier Erasme) is a 1863 by Hans Holbein the Younger, a Impressionism work, held at Cleveland Museum of Art.

Who painted this?: Hans Holbein the Younger
When & what style?: 1863 · Impressionism
Where can I see it?: Cleveland Museum of Art

About this work

This black-and-white print shows a man in a dark hat and fur-lined coat, writing intently at a desk. Behind him, a patterned tapestry hangs on the wall, and a window with draped curtains lets in faint light. His hands grip a quill, and a book lies open in front of him. The name "Didier Erasme" is signed at the bottom, but this is actually a later print inspired by a famous portrait. The original artist, Hans Holbein, was known for sharp details and careful lighting. Next, check out chiaroscuro—the technique of strong light and shadow used here.