Created:
Movement:
1648
Baroque
key Notes:
Tenebrism, Emotional Intimacy
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Dimensions:
82 1/2 x 60 3/4 in. (209.6 x 154.3 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
story of the work:

"Holy Family" is a painting by the Spanish Baroque artist Jusepe de Ribera, also known as Lo Spagnoletto, created in 1648. The work depicts the Holy Family, featuring the Virgin Mary, the infant Jesus, and Saint Joseph. Ribera is known for his dramatic use of light and shadow, a technique known as chiaroscuro, which is evident in this piece. The painting reflects the influence of Caravaggism, characterized by its realistic portrayal of figures and emotional intensity. Ribera's style often combined elements of realism with a deep spiritual resonance, which is present in this depiction of familial intimacy. The exact provenance of "Holy Family" is not well-documented, and its current location is unknown. The painting is considered an important example of Ribera's late work, showcasing his mature style and thematic focus on religious subjects.

Description of the work:

"Holy Family" by Jusepe de Ribera, created in 1648, is an oil on canvas painting that depicts the Virgin Mary, the Christ Child, and Saint Joseph in a domestic setting. The composition is characterized by a strong use of chiaroscuro, which enhances the three-dimensionality of the figures and creates a dramatic interplay of light and shadow. Ribera employs a rich color palette dominated by earthy tones, with warm browns and deep reds that evoke a sense of intimacy and warmth. The figures are rendered with meticulous attention to anatomical detail, showcasing Ribera's skill in portraying human emotion and physicality. The Virgin Mary is depicted with a serene expression, cradling the Christ Child, who reaches out towards Saint Joseph, who is shown in a protective stance. The background is relatively subdued, allowing the figures to occupy the viewer's focus. The overall composition conveys a sense of familial tenderness and divine presence, characteristic of Ribera's religious works.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Holy Family