Who was Lucas Horenbout and what was his primary artistic role in England?

Lucas Horenbout, also known as Hornebolte in England, was a Flemish artist born around 1490-1495 who moved to England in the mid-1520s. He served as the King's Painter and court miniaturist to King Henry VIII from 1525 until his death in 1544. He is recognized as the founding painter of the distinct English tradition of portrait miniature painting.

What artistic tradition did Lucas Horenbout emerge from before moving to England?

Lucas Horenbout was trained in the final phase of Netherlandish illuminated manuscript painting. This was a tradition in which his father, Gerard Horenbout, was a significant figure, providing the foundation for his later work in England.

Where was Lucas Horenbout born, and who was his primary artistic instructor?

Lucas Horenbout was born in Ghent, where he received his initial artistic training from his father, Gerard Horenbout.

When did Lucas Horenbout achieve the status of master in his local artists' guild?

Lucas Horenbout became a master of the local Guild of Saint Luke in Ghent in the year 1512.

What was the professional relationship between Gerard Horenbout and Margaret of Austria?

Gerard Horenbout, Lucas's father, served as the court painter to Margaret of Austria, who was the regent of the Netherlands, from 1515 until approximately 1522.

What familial connections existed between Margaret of Austria and Catherine of Aragon?

Margaret of Austria was twice a sister-in-law to Catherine of Aragon, the first wife of King Henry VIII of England. This connection is noted in the context of the Horenbout family's eventual move to England.

Who is Gerard Horenbout sometimes identified with in the context of Flemish manuscript illumination?

Gerard Horenbout is sometimes identified with the Master of James IV of Scotland, who was a significant illuminator associated with the Ghent-Bruges school. However, this master remains historically unattached to a specific named individual.

When did Lucas Horenbout relocate to England, and who accompanied him?

Lucas Horenbout moved to England at an unspecified date, possibly accompanied by his sister Susannah Hornebolt and his father Gerard.

What is a debated theory regarding the reason for the Horenbout family's migration to England?

A debated theory suggests that the Horenbout family's move to England was connected to an effort by King Henry VIII or Cardinal Wolsey to revive the art of English manuscript illumination by establishing a dedicated workshop in London.

Who did Lucas Horenbout marry, and what is known about her background?

Lucas Horenbout married Margaret Holsewyther around 1525. She was an artist of German descent who had likely been born in England.

What is known about the later career and death of Lucas Horenbout's father, Gerard?

Gerard Horenbout was first recorded in England in 1528. He later returned to the Continent and had died in Ghent by 1540.

What information is available regarding Susannah Hornebolt's life and career?

Susannah Hornebolt, also an illuminator, was recorded in England in 1529 as being married to a John Palmer. Additionally, Albrecht Dürer's records indicate he purchased a miniature from her in Antwerp in May 1521.

When is Lucas Horenbout first documented receiving payment from the English King, and what was his initial title?

Lucas Horenbout is documented in England from September 1525, when he first received payment from the King with the title 'pictor maker'.

When was Lucas Horenbout officially appointed as the 'King's Painter,' and what other legal status did he acquire?

By 1531, Lucas Horenbout was described as the King's Painter, and this appointment was confirmed for life in June 1534. In the same year, he also became a 'denizen,' which effectively granted him naturalized citizen status in England.

How did Lucas Horenbout's annual salary compare to that of Hans Holbein the Younger during their time as court painters?

Lucas Horenbout was very well compensated, receiving sixty-two pounds and ten shillings annually. This salary was significantly higher than the thirty pounds per year Hans Holbein the Younger received during his period as Henry VIII's court painter.

What additional benefits or permissions did Lucas Horenbout receive as the King's Painter?

In addition to his substantial salary, Horenbout was granted a tenement in Charing Cross and was permitted to employ up to four foreign journeymen.

Where did Lucas Horenbout die, and who were his surviving family members?

Lucas Horenbout died in London and was buried at Saint Martin in the Fields. He was survived by his wife, Margaret, and a daughter named Jacquemine.

What is noted about Margaret Holsewyther's artistic activities following Lucas Horenbout's death?

Margaret Holsewyther, Lucas's wife, continued her artistic endeavors after his death. She received payments from Queen Catherine Parr for miniatures, which she presumably created, and inherited Lucas's studio along with their daughter.

What significant artistic tradition is Lucas Horenbout credited with establishing in England?

Lucas Horenbout is credited with founding the English school of portrait miniature painting. This distinct tradition began to emerge shortly after his arrival in England.

What potential continental influence might have inspired the development of portrait miniatures in England?

Three lost miniatures, possibly created by Jean Clouet of the French court, may have inspired the new form of portrait miniature painting in England, as they were sent from France to the English court.

According to Karel van Mander, what artistic skill did Lucas Horenbout allegedly teach to Hans Holbein the Younger?

According to the early 17th-century writer Karel van Mander, Lucas Horenbout taught the art of illumination to Hans Holbein the Younger, who also served as a court artist for Henry VIII. However, this assertion has been doubted by some art historians.

How many surviving portrait miniatures are typically attributed to Lucas Horenbout, and who are their usual subjects?

In recent decades, twenty-three surviving portrait miniatures have generally been attributed to Horenbout. With the exception of one portrait depicting Holbein, all these miniatures are of members of the English or other European royal families, including portraits of at least four of Henry VIII's Queens.

From which decade do most of the datable portrait miniatures attributed to Horenbout originate?

A significant proportion of the datable portrait miniatures attributed to Lucas Horenbout come from the 1520s.

What is particularly noteworthy about Lucas Horenbout's 1543 miniature portrait of Hans Holbein the Younger?

This miniature is considered one of Horenbout's most accomplished works partly because he based the likeness on a self-portrait drawing by Holbein himself, as Horenbout's own drawing abilities were not considered his strongest aspect.

What technical analysis led to the conclusion that the 1543 miniature of Holbein was likely by Horenbout?

Technical examination revealed an absence of Holbein's characteristic subtle gradations of flesh tones and his fine, pen-like lines used for costume details. These differences indicated that the painting was executed by a different artist, presumed to be Horenbout.

Where are the two attributed versions of the miniature portrait of Hans Holbein the Younger located?

One version of the miniature portrait of Hans Holbein the Younger is housed in the Wallace Collection, while the other is in the collection of the Duke of Buccleuch.

Besides miniatures, what other artistic forms is Lucas Horenbout recorded as working in?

Lucas Horenbout is recorded as having worked in other artistic forms, likely including panel paintings, woodcuts, and decorations for royal festivities. However, apart from illuminations found on official documents, no certain surviving works from these other media are known.

What artistic association has Roy Strong proposed for Lucas Horenbout?

Roy Strong suggested a connection between Lucas Horenbout and an artist known only as the Master of the Cast Shadow Workshop. This master produced a series of portraits, primarily of English monarchs, presumably working for the King.

On what types of royal documents are illuminated decorations attributed to Horenbout found?

Illuminated decorations attributed to Horenbout are found on certain royal documents, including charters and Acts of state.

Which specific illuminated manuscript, housed at Hatfield House, has been attributed to Lucas Horenbout or his sister?

An illuminated manuscript featuring two elaborate full-page miniatures, located at Hatfield House, has been attributed either to Lucas Horenbout or his sister, Susannah.

What is tentatively attributed to one of the Horenbout siblings from the significant Sforza Hours manuscript?

Some illuminations within the major Sforza Hours manuscript have been tentatively attributed to one of the Horenbout siblings, indicating potential contributions to this important work.

What evidence exists regarding Susannah Hornebolt's artistic activities on the continent?

Albrecht Dürer's records document his purchase of a miniature from Susannah Hornebolt in Antwerp in May 1521, suggesting her work was recognized and traded internationally before her potential move to England.

To which Horenbout family members are certain illuminations attributed for specific projects like the Lydgate works and Cardinal College documents?

Certain illuminations found in a collection of works by John Lydgate (British Library) and in the Letters Patent for Cardinal College in Oxford are attributed to one or more of Gerard, Lucas, and Susanna Horenbout, without definitively specifying individual contributions.

What does the image caption describe as a portrait by Lucas Horenbout from 1525-26, held in the Fitzwilliam Museum?

The image caption describes a portrait miniature of Henry VIII, created between 1525 and 1526 by Lucas Horenbout. This artwork is part of a charter held in the Fitzwilliam Museum.

What is depicted in the first gallery image, and what is its date range?

The first gallery image shows a portrait of Catherine of Aragon with a monkey, dated between 1525 and 1526.

What subject does the second gallery image portray, and what is the timeframe of its creation?

The second gallery image portrays Catherine of Aragon, and it was created between 1525 and 1526.

Who is the subject of the third gallery image, and what was his familial relationship to Henry VIII?

The third gallery image depicts Henry FitzRoy, 1st Duke of Richmond and Somerset, who was Henry VIII's illegitimate son. The portrait is dated 1534-35.

What does the fourth gallery image represent, and what is its associated date?

The fourth gallery image shows a portrait of Jane Seymour, dated 1536-37.

What is the description provided for the image of Hans Holbein the Younger?

The article includes an image of Hans Holbein the Younger from 1543, noting that Horenbout copied a self-portrait drawing by Holbein for his own miniature portrait of the artist.

What related topic is listed in the 'See also' section of the article?

The 'See also' section lists Artists of the Tudor court, indicating related individuals and the broader artistic context of that historical period.

What types of scholarly resources are cited in the 'References' section of the article?

The 'References' section lists various scholarly works, including books on Renaissance illumination, Tudor court artists, English Renaissance miniatures, and museum catalogues, often providing ISBNs and author details.

What kinds of external resources are provided for readers seeking more information about Lucas Horenbout?

External resources include a Wikimedia Commons category for images related to Lucas Horenbout, links to government art collections that feature his work, and archival materials from the Society of Antiquaries.

Which major international authority control databases are linked for Lucas Horenbout?

The article provides links to several authority control databases for Lucas Horenbout, including VIAF (Virtual International Authority File), GND (German National Library), ULAN (Union List of Artist Names), RKD Artists (Netherlands Institute for Art History), and the Netherlands Institute for Art History's biographical portal.

What was the significance of Lucas Horenbout's training in Netherlandish illuminated manuscript painting?

His training in Netherlandish illuminated manuscript painting, under his father Gerard Horenbout, provided Lucas with the foundational skills that he later applied and adapted to establish the distinct English tradition of portrait miniature painting.

What connection existed between the Horenbout family and the Habsburg court?

Lucas Horenbout's father, Gerard Horenbout, served as court painter to Margaret of Austria, who was a significant figure in the Habsburg court and regent of the Netherlands. Margaret herself had familial ties to Catherine of Aragon, Henry VIII's wife.

What role did Cardinal Wolsey potentially play in the Horenbout family's move to England?

It has been suggested, though controversially, that Cardinal Wolsey, along with King Henry VIII, may have been involved in inviting the Horenbout family to England as part of an initiative to revive manuscript illumination.

How did Lucas Horenbout's status as a 'denizen' benefit him?

Becoming a 'denizen' in June 1534 effectively granted Lucas Horenbout naturalized citizen status in England, solidifying his position at court and likely facilitating his continued work and residence.

What evidence suggests that Lucas Horenbout's wife, Margaret Holsewyther, continued his artistic legacy?

Margaret Holsewyther continued to create miniatures after Lucas's death, receiving payment from Queen Catherine Parr for her work. She inherited his studio along with their daughter, indicating a continuation of the family's artistic practice.

What challenges exist in attributing specific works among the Horenbout family members?

Attributing specific works among Gerard, Lucas, and Susannah Horenbout can be challenging, as noted in the text regarding illuminations on documents like those for John Lydgate and Cardinal College, where contributions are often not precisely delineated.

What does the reference to 'Cast Shadow Workshop' imply about Horenbout's work?

Roy Strong linked Lucas Horenbout with the Master of the Cast Shadow Workshop, suggesting Horenbout may have been involved in producing a series of portraits, likely for the King, under this designation, even if the workshop's output is described as rather undistinguished.

What is the significance of Lucas Horenbout being called the founder of the English school of portrait miniature painting?

This designation highlights his pivotal role in establishing and popularizing the art form of portrait miniatures in England. The tradition began suddenly around the time of his arrival, suggesting he was its primary initiator.

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Life and Family

Origins in Ghent

Lucas Horenbout, often referred to as Hornebolte in England, was born in Ghent, Flanders, around 1490 or 1495. He hailed from a distinguished artistic family. His father, Gerard Horenbout, was a notable manuscript illuminator and had served as court painter to Margaret of Austria, Regent of the Netherlands, from 1515 to approximately 1522. Lucas trained under his father and became a master of the local Guild of Saint Luke in 1512, signifying his early establishment as a professional artist.

Arrival in England

Horenbout relocated to England in the mid-1520s, possibly around 1522 or 1525, accompanied by his sister Susannah, who was also an illuminator, and potentially his father. Their move may have been connected to an initiative to revitalize English manuscript illumination by establishing a workshop in London, though this remains a subject of scholarly debate. In England, Lucas married Margaret Holsewyther, an artist of German descent who was likely born in England.

Royal Appointment and Recognition

By September 1525, Lucas Horenbout was receiving payments from King Henry VIII as a "pictor maker." His official title of "King's Painter" was confirmed for life in June 1534, when he also became a "denizen," essentially a naturalized citizen. He was exceptionally well-compensated, earning a substantial annual salary of sixty-two pounds and ten shillings, a figure significantly higher than that of Hans Holbein the Younger during his tenure as court painter. Horenbout was granted a residence in Charing Cross and permitted to employ four foreign journeymen.

Later Life and Legacy

Lucas Horenbout died in London in 1544 and was buried at St. Martin-in-the-Fields. He left behind a wife, Margaret, and a daughter, Jacquemine. His wife continued to produce miniatures, receiving payments from Queen Catherine Parr for her work for several years after Lucas's death. The studio was bequeathed to be divided between his wife and daughter. While his father Gerard returned to the Continent and died by 1540, and his sister Susannah is recorded as married and living in England, Lucas's direct artistic lineage in England was established through his own pioneering work.

Artistic Contributions

Founder of English Miniature Painting

Lucas Horenbout is widely credited as the founder of the distinct English tradition of portrait miniature painting. This art form emerged quite suddenly in England around the time of his arrival, with few direct precedents on the continent. While three lost miniatures, possibly by Jean Clouet and sent from the French court, might have served as inspiration, Horenbout's work established the genre in England, influencing generations of artists.

Mentorship and Influence

According to the early 17th-century art historian Karel van Mander, Horenbout taught the art of illumination to Hans Holbein the Younger, another prominent court artist under Henry VIII. While this assertion has been subject to scholarly debate, with some art historians like John Rowlands suggesting Holbein's miniature techniques were more influenced by the French school, Horenbout's presence and skill undoubtedly contributed to the vibrant artistic environment of the Tudor court.

Attributed Miniatures

In recent decades, approximately twenty-three surviving portrait miniatures have been attributed to Horenbout. With the exception of one portrait of Holbein, these works predominantly depict members of the English royal family and other European nobility. Notable attributions include portraits of at least four of Henry VIII's Queens. A significant number of these dated works originate from the 1520s, coinciding with his early years in England.

Beyond Miniatures

Horenbout's artistic output extended beyond miniatures. He is recorded as having worked on panel paintings, woodcuts, and decorative schemes for royal festivities. While few certain examples of these survive, illuminated decorations on royal charters, Acts, and similar official documents are also attributed to him. Furthermore, some illuminations within significant manuscripts, such as the ''Sforza Hours'' and documents related to Cardinal Wolsey's Cardinal College, have been tentatively attributed to Lucas, his father Gerard, or his sister Susannah, highlighting the family's collective artistic talent.

Notable Works

Royal Portraits

The following subjects were depicted in works attributed to Lucas Horenbout or his circle, showcasing his significant contribution to Tudor court portraiture. Due to restrictions on image usage, visual representations are not displayed here, but the subjects provide context for his artistic focus.

Catherine of Aragon with a monkey, 1525–26

Catherine of Aragon, 1525–26

Henry FitzRoy, 1st Duke of Richmond and Somerset, Henry VIII's illegitimate son, 1534-5

Jane Seymour, 1536–37

Related Figures

Artists of the Tudor Court

Lucas Horenbout was a pivotal figure among the artists who served the English monarchy during the Tudor period. His work and presence influenced the artistic landscape, contributing to the development of portraiture and manuscript illumination within the royal court. Exploring other artists of this era provides further context for his achievements and the artistic milieu in which he operated.

Artists of the Tudor court

Scholarly Notes

Reference Details

The following notes provide specific details and attributions referenced in scholarly works concerning Lucas Horenbout and his contemporaries. These citations are crucial for understanding the provenance and interpretation of his artistic legacy.

Strong, 1983a, p.36
Margaret was the widow of Catherine's brother John, Prince of Asturias. Margaret's brother Philip the Handsome had married Catherine's sister. Both were aunts of Emperor Charles V
Richard Gay and T Kren in T Kren & S McKendrick (eds), Illuminating the Renaissance: The Triumph of Flemish Manuscript Painting in Europe, pp. 427-431 & passim, Getty Museum/Royal Academy of Arts, 2003, ISBN 1-903973-28-7
possibly as early as 1522, says Reynolds, op cit
T Kren & S McKendrick, op cit, pp. 427-8
James, Susan (2020). "Holsewyther, Margaret (b. c. 1504, d. after 1560), royal miniaturist". Oxford Dictionary of National Biography. doi:10.1093/odnb/9780198614128.013.90000369540. ISBN 978-0-19-861412-8. Retrieved 27 March 2021.
Reynolds (2006):45
Strong 1983a, p. 34; although Gay in Kren:434 says only £33 6s
Gay op cit, p.434
Strong, 1983a, p.34
Rowlands, 88–90. Karel van Mander wrote in the early 17th century that "Lucas" taught Holbein illumination, but art historian John Rowlands downplays Horenbout's influence on Holbein's miniatures, which he believes follow the techniques of Jean Clouet and the French school.
Reynolds (1980) pp.33-39. The drawing is in the Uffizi image - "much retouched" and not universally accepted as an original Holbein (Reynolds (1980):38 & passim)
Reynolds,1980:38
The other is owned by the Duke of Buccleuch
Reynolds (1980):38
Strong 1983b:42–44
Strong 1983a:34
Gay op cit, No. 132, p.434-5
T Kren & S McKendrick op cit, Nos. 130 & 131, p.431-3

External Resources

Wikimedia Commons

Explore visual materials related to Lucas Horenbout and his contemporaries.

Category:Lucas Horenbout on Wikimedia Commons (opens in new tab)

Government Art Collection

View portraits of monarchs from the preceding century, potentially linked to the 'Cast Shadow Workshop' associated with Horenbout.

Cast Shadow Workshop Portraits (opens in new tab)

Society of Antiquaries

Access information on four paintings attributed to the 'Cast Shadow Workshop'.

Cast Shadow Workshop Paintings (opens in new tab)

Authority Control

Databases

Cross-reference information and discover further details about Lucas Horenbout through these authoritative databases.

International: VIAF (2) | GND
Artists: ULAN | RKD Artists
People: Netherlands Biographical Portal

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References

The other is owned by the Duke of Buccleuch

A full list of references for this article are available at the Lucas Horenbout Wikipedia page

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This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is derived from publicly available data, primarily Wikipedia, and may not be entirely comprehensive, accurate, or up-to-date. Historical interpretations and attributions can evolve.

This is not professional art historical advice. The information provided is not a substitute for consultation with qualified art historians, curators, or specialists in Renaissance art and portraiture. Always consult primary sources and expert opinions for definitive research.

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Lucas Horenbout: Illuminating the Tudor Court

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Life and Family 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

🌍 Origins in Ghent

👑 Arrival in England

💰 Royal Appointment and Recognition

⚰️ Later Life and Legacy

Artistic Contributions 🖌️

🌟 Founder of English Miniature Painting

🎓 Mentorship and Influence

🖼️ Attributed Miniatures

📜 Beyond Miniatures

Notable Works 🖼️

👑 Royal Portraits

Related Figures 🔗

🧑‍🎨 Artists of the Tudor Court

Scholarly Notes 📝

📚 Reference Details

External Resources 🌐

🖼️ Wikimedia Commons

🏛️ Government Art Collection

📜 Society of Antiquaries

Authority Control 🆔

🗂️ Databases

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Life and Family

Origins in Ghent

Arrival in England

Royal Appointment and Recognition

Later Life and Legacy

Artistic Contributions

Founder of English Miniature Painting

Mentorship and Influence

Attributed Miniatures

Beyond Miniatures

Notable Works

Royal Portraits

Related Figures

Artists of the Tudor Court

Scholarly Notes

Reference Details

External Resources

Wikimedia Commons

Government Art Collection

Society of Antiquaries

Authority Control

Databases

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice