Description:  This intricate design for a glass painting is thoroughly characteristic of Holbein’s first years as a master in the guild at Basel. It was presumably made for the rooms of a newly appointed bishop or abbot, as symbolised by the crozier and mitre. The image of the Madonna and Child on the mitre may indicate that the patron’s cathedral or abbey was dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The empty shield which is meant to include the patron’s coat of arms suggests that this design is unfinished. The drawing was once in the collection of Sir Peter Lely (1618 - 1680), Principal Painter to King Charles II.

Inscriptions / Translations:  Inscribed l.c.: H Holbein [the letters H joined]. Collector's marks: Sir Peter Lely [Lugt 1753, twice]; Jonathan Richardson senior [Lugt 2184].

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