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Project Title: The Portrait drawings of Hans Holbein the Younger: Function and use explored through materials and techniques

The thesis examines the materials and techniques of sixteenth-century artist Hans Holbein the Younger, with particular reference to his portrait drawings. Focusing on the 18 drawings that relate to currently attributed oil and miniature paintings, the research demonstrates the link between the materials and techniques chosen by Holbein, and the function or end-use of the drawings.

Having developed an effective method of examining and describing Holbein's drawings, this research provides a thorough analysis of the materials and techniques used by him. A comprehensive, systematic visual examination of around 100 drawings has helped to reveal new information on Holbein's methods and materials, and offers insights into sixteenth-century workshop practice. An important outcome of this research is a detailed description of the drawings that relate to a painted portrait.

In many cases examination has clarified the sequence in which the media was laid down. It has also revealed that red chalk was the preliminary media for defining features and that Holbein standardised techniques for rendering flesh tones, making the drawing process more efficient. What has previously been described as metalpoint marks were discovered to be indentations, which have become filled with loose media, thereby giving the appearance of a drawn line. The indentations actually show evidence of tracing of the salient lines that capture likeness for transfer. It is apparent that Holbein chose techniques to fulfil a particular role, and that there are clear links between these techniques and their location on a drawing.