How Do You Spell HOLBEIN?

Pronunciation: [hˈɒlbiːn] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "Holbein" is based on its origins. It comes from the name of the famous German artist Hans Holbein the Younger. The pronunciation of his name is [hɔlbaɪn] in IPA phonetic transcription, with the stress on the first syllable. The spelling of "Holbein" follows the traditional English conventions for rendering German names in English. While it may seem unusual to English speakers, the spelling accurately reflects the original German pronunciation of the name.

HOLBEIN Meaning and Definition

1. Holbein refers to either of the two prominent German artists of the 16th century, Hans Holbein the Elder (1465-1524) and his son, Hans Holbein the Younger (1497-1543). The surname "Holbein" is derived from the German words "hol" meaning hollow and "bein" meaning bone, which could be interpreted as "hollow bone," suggesting the artistic prowess and talent of the Holbein family.

   Hans Holbein the Younger is widely acknowledged as one of the most significant portraitists of the Northern Renaissance. Renowned for his realistic and detailed representations, he primarily worked in England, having gained prominence mainly through his association with King Henry VIII's court. Holbein's portraits capture the essence of his subjects, meticulously conveying their individual characteristics, and he is also recognized for his skillful use of light and shadow.

   Hans Holbein the Elder, father of Hans Holbein the Younger, was a respected painter in his own right and a prominent member of the Augsburg school of painting. Though overshadowed by his son's later fame, the senior Holbein made significant contributions to religious and historical art, particularly through techniques such as woodcutting and altar painting.

   Given their immense influence and contributions to the art world, the name "Holbein" serves as a reminder of the artistic legacy of this distinguished German family.

Common Misspellings for HOLBEIN

• holdin
• holein
• holeing
• hollerin
• holden
• holbeim
• holbien
• hyblean
• hooladin
• hopvien
• wholbeit
• Holzein
• holowin
• Houtein

Etymology of HOLBEIN

The word "Holbein" is derived from the surname of the renowned German artist Hans Holbein the Younger. Hans Holbein was a celebrated painter and printmaker of the Northern Renaissance, best known for his portraits. Over time, the name "Holbein" came to be associated with his distinctive artistic style and thus became an eponym for artwork and techniques resembling or influenced by his work. Today, the term "Holbein" is often used to refer to a particular method of portrait painting characterized by a high level of precision and attention to detail, similar to that seen in Holbein's own portraits.

Similar spelling word for HOLBEIN

• Holben.