Artwork
The Holy Family with the Goldfinch
The Holy Family with the Goldfinch is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Schelte Adams Bolswert. It dates from 1622 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
The Holy Family with the Goldfinch is a 1622 engraving by Schelte Adamsz. Bolswert, a Frisian artist active in Antwerp. It is a reproductive print, translating a painting into a widely disseminable format.
Subject & Meaning
The engraving depicts the Holy Family in a serene scene, with a goldfinch nearby. The goldfinch is a recurring symbol in Christian art, adding a layer of religious significance to the image.
Technique & Style
Bolswert's engraving features sharp lines and shading, creating depth and texture. The use of black and white emphasizes the subtlety of the scene, with details such as the bird's claws and the figures' facial expressions rendered with precision.
History & Provenance
Bolswert worked primarily in Rubens' workshop, specializing in translating paintings into prints. This engraving is an example of his skill in reproducing the work of other artists, likely Rubens or another prominent painter of the time.
Artist & collection
Artist
Schelte a Bolswert or Schelte Adamsz. Bolswert (c. 1586 – 1659) was a Frisian engraver who worked most of his career in Antwerp where he was one of the lead engravers in Rubens' workshop. He is known for his…
