Hans Holbein the Younger’s The Ambassadors (1533) has long been recognized as a masterpiece of art history. Diplomat Jean de Dinteville and Bishop Georges de Selves pose for this work before a green damask curtain upon an ornate mosaic floor. Their youthful confidence exudes from the canvas as they stand amidst an array of treasures that highlight their taste and worldliness. A silver crucifix peers out from behind the curtain on the top left of the painting, and a large, distorted skull dominates the foreground. Yet, this work is much more than mere portraiture. This paper will argue that Holbein’s The Ambassadors demonstrates the success of the Protestant Reformation in England by its Gospel-centered message, highlighting how the fleeting nature of wealth and the inevitability of death contrast with the eternality of God and salvation through Christ.
This paper, uniquely blending the disciplines of art history, church history, and theology, will discuss the spread of Protestant teachings to England by analyzing a masterpiece produced during this era. This paper will engage both contributions from church historians and art historians, particularly those who have research extensively on Holbein and The Ambassadors, such as Jennifer Nelson, Franny Moyle and Jeanette Zwingenberger.
While the painting may initially appear to be a flaunting of wealth and power, The Ambassadors promotes a differing message. The items on display symbolize the ushering in of the Protestant Reformation. This paper will discuss the significance of the displayed items, as they represent a break from Catholicism and adherence to Protestant theology. Moreover, Holbein contrasts earthly power and eternal security in this work. The distorted skull reminds viewers that death is an unavoidable reality. The skull slashes through the lower half of the painting, yet the crucifix gently peeks out from behind the green damask. Yes, all march toward death and earthly decay, but salvation is being offered for those who recognize true wealth. Holbein’s work rejects traditionalism and embraces the Protestantism. Though The Ambassadors is portraiture of two men, its true message demonstrates the spread of Reformation teaching and Gospel-centeredness.