Lady Lee (Margaret Wyatt, born about 1509)

Hans Holbein the Younger

Created:
Movement:
1543
Renaissance
key Notes:
Renaissance Portraiture, Detailed Realism
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Dimensions:
17 3/8 × 13 3/8 in. (44.1 × 34 cm)
medium:
Oil and gold on oak
story of the work:

"Lady Lee (Margaret Wyatt, born about 1509)" is a portrait by Hans Holbein the Younger, created in the early 1540s. The painting depicts Margaret Wyatt, who later became Lady Lee after her marriage to Sir Anthony Lee. Holbein was known for his detailed and realistic portrayal of subjects, and this work exemplifies his skill in capturing the personality and status of the sitter. The painting is characterized by its rich colors and intricate details, particularly in the depiction of clothing and accessories. Margaret Wyatt was a member of the English court and is believed to have been connected to prominent figures of the Tudor period. The exact circumstances of the commission and the relationship between Holbein and Lady Lee remain unknown. The portrait is currently housed in the collection of the National Gallery, London.

Description of the work:

"Lady Lee (Margaret Wyatt, born about 1509)" by Hans Holbein the Younger is an oil and gold painting on oak, created in the early 1540s. The portrait depicts Margaret Wyatt, later known as Lady Lee, in a three-quarter pose, emphasizing her dignified presence. She is adorned in a richly detailed black gown with a high neckline, which is characteristic of the fashion of the period. The gown features intricate gold embroidery, enhancing the opulence of her attire. Her sleeves are wide and elaborately decorated, showcasing the artist's attention to textile detail. Lady Lee's face is rendered with a soft yet realistic expression, framed by a delicate white ruff that contrasts with her dark clothing. The background is a muted, dark tone that serves to highlight the figure and her attire. Holbein's use of gold accents adds a luminous quality to the painting, contributing to its overall richness. The composition is balanced and formal, reflecting the status of the sitter within the Tudor court. The work exemplifies Holbein's skill in capturing both the physical likeness and the social standing of his subjects.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Lady Lee (Margaret Wyatt, born about 1509)