Who painted The Holy Family?

The Holy Family was painted by Adriaen van der Werff in 1714.

Where can I see The Holy Family?

The Holy Family is held by Rijksmuseum.

What movement is The Holy Family?

The Holy Family is associated with Rococo painting.

Artwork

The Holy Family

Adriaen van der Werff , 1714

The Holy Family is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Adriaen van der Werff. It dates from 1714 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.

About this work

Overview

Adriaen van der Werff's 1714 oil painting, The Holy Family, exemplifies his devotional work. This Dutch artist, active in the late 17th and early 18th centuries, was known for religious and mythological themes, as well as portraiture. The artwork is characterized by its Rococo style and is part of the Rijksmuseum's collection, representing a key aspect of his artistic output.

Subject & Meaning

The painting portrays the Virgin Mary cradling the infant Jesus, with Saint Joseph positioned behind them, interacting with a branch. Mary's gentle expression and the child's relaxed posture convey a sense of serenity and intimacy. Symbolic elements such as a cherry, a rose, and a twig are incorporated, subtly enriching the traditional narrative of the Holy Family.

Technique & Style

Rendered in the Rococo style, the artwork features soft, luminous figures that emerge from a darker background, a technique enhancing their prominence and creating depth. The artist employs delicate brushwork to depict the flowing drapery of Mary's dress and the serene countenances of the figures. This approach contributes to the painting's quiet and intimate atmosphere.

Context

Adriaen van der Werff was a prominent Dutch painter whose oeuvre encompassed a range of subjects, including mythological narratives and portraits, in addition to devotional pieces like The Holy Family. His reputation extended to influential patrons, notably the Medici family, for whom he also created works, indicating his significant standing in European art circles.