Who was Jakob Meyer zum Hasen?

Jakob Meyer zum Hasen was a wealthy Basel merchant who became the city's Bürgermeister (mayor). He was an important patron of Holbein, commissioning several family portraits.

Where is this portrait displayed?

The portrait hangs at the Kunstmuseum Basel in Switzerland. It measures 38.5 x 30.8 cm and was commissioned for Meyer's house in 1516.

What does the Latin inscription mean?

The inscription "Vivit post funera virtus" means "Virtue lives after death." It reflects Meyer's desire to project dignity and lasting moral worth through his portrait.

Where Is Portrait of Jakob Meyer zum Hasen? Museum Location

German artist Hans Holbein the Younger painted this portrait of Jakob Meyer zum Hasen in 1516, capturing the wealthy Basel merchant who would become the city's mayor (Bürgermeister). The sitter's serious expression and upright posture convey authority, while Holbein renders every wrinkle, facial hair, and fabric texture with astonishing precision.

A Latin inscription reads "Vivit post funera virtus" (Virtue lives after death), reflecting Meyer's desire to project lasting dignity. The composition places him centrally, surrounded by symbolic objects including a book. Holbein's use of light and shadow creates notable depth and three-dimensionality, characteristic of the Northern Renaissance.

The portrait, measuring 38.5 by 30.8 centimeters, hangs at the Kunstmuseum Basel in Switzerland. Meyer commissioned it for his house, establishing a relationship with Holbein that would produce several family portraits including the famous "Darmstadt Madonna."