The Story
Head of an Old Woman by Hans Holbein (German, c.
1465–1524).
“A silence so complete it becomes its own witness.”
Now viewing
Head of an Old Woman
Hans Holbein (German, c. 1465–1524)
Period
Renaissance
Theme
Portrait
Medium
silverpoint; traces of framing lines in graphite
Current Location
Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland
The Story
Head of an Old Woman by Hans Holbein (German, c.
1465–1524).
“A silence so complete it becomes its own witness.”
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A restrained palette and sculptural lighting create a solemn geometry. The wooden crate and letter anchor the narrative with journalistic precision.