Holbein

Hans, or Johann, a German painter; born in Augsburg, about 1497. He learned the elements of his art from his father, whom he soon excelled. At the recommendation of Erasmus he came to England, and was employed first by Sir Thomas More, who introduced him to Henry VIII. He rose to the zenith of fortune in that monarch’s court, and painted a great number of portraits which are still considered masterpieces of art. He painted some religious and historical] pieces; his masterpiece is perhaps the * Family of the Burgomaster Meyer,” now in the Gallery of Dresden. Hol- @bein is also the author of a very celebrated series of designs, known as the * Dance of Death,” cut in wood and first published at Lyons in 1538; afterward copied by Hollar and others. He died of the plague in 1543.