Plate 62, Dance of Death Alphabet (overview)details

Hans Holbein’s famous death dance initials, ca 1523.

These widely described and published initials are not only the most magnificent thing which was created by the master, but also the most ingenious German artistic pre-renaissance creation for decorative intials. The technical development of his work is admirable, which are commonly known as works of Hans Lützelburger [that is, they were probably engraved by Hans Luetzelburger after designs by Holbein - Liam].

A question unanswered today [1878] is whether the decorations were created by metal engraving or by woodcut. The sharpness of the shapes, the small outlines seem to be created using metalcut techniques. But the softness in the overall appearance looks like the woodcut technique is used.

The earliest use of the letters in print were in Johann Bebels Offizin around 1524. The provided complete suite is based on the sample impressions (from the museum of Basel) in original size.