Rehoboam

Holbein began working on the murals for the Council Chamber during the 1520s, painting classical subjects. After his return from a two-year visit to England (1526–28), he was commissioned to resume the task, but this time to provide murals based on Old Testament subjects, in keeping with the new Reformation doctrines of the authorities. These murals were one of several large-scale projects undertaken by Holbein that are now known only from a few fragments and preparatory sketches, including a drawing of Rehoboam from a frontal position. This section is the largest of those that were removed from the wall in the 19th century and preserved. It portrays Rehoboam, the son of Solomon, whose arrogant government led to his people's rebellion and the loss of part of his kingdom. He holds out his little finger, saying, "My little finger is thicker than my father's waist!" The murals reminded the councillors of the need for wise and godly government.
References

• Christian Müller; Stephan Kemperdick; Maryan Ainsworth; et al, Hans Holbein the Younger: The Basel Years, 1515–1532, Munich: Prestel, 2006, ISBN 9783791335803, p. 412.
• Derek Wilson, Hans Holbein: Portrait of an Unknown Man, London: Pimlico, 2006, ISBN 9781844139187, p. 162.