Edward VI (1537–1553), When Duke of Cornwall

Workshop of Hans Holbein the Younger German
ca. 1545; reworked 1547 or later
Not on view
Edward, the sole legitimate son of Henry VIII, was born on October 12, 1537 and crowned Edward VI in 1547. This portrait shows the future king at age six, when he was still the Duke of Cornwall. It was subsequently adapted in costume to reflect Edward’s stature at the time of his coronation. The roundel format and the sitter’s profile pose evoke the coinage of classical antiquity, admired at the Tudor court. The panel was once considered an autograph work by Holbein. Technical evidence, however, suggests it was painted after his death by a workshop assistant, based on an earlier design by the master.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Edward VI (1537–1553), When Duke of Cornwall
  • Artist: Workshop of Hans Holbein the Younger
  • Date: ca. 1545; reworked 1547 or later
  • Medium: Oil and gold on oak
  • Dimensions: Diameter 12 3/4 in. (32.4 cm)
  • Classification: Paintings
  • Credit Line: The Jules Bache Collection, 1949
  • Object Number: 49.7.31
  • Curatorial Department: European Paintings

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