Artwork

The Holy Family with Two Angels

The Holy Family with Two Angels, by Jacques Callot, ink, 1614
The Holy Family with Two Angels, by Jacques Callot, ink, 1614

The Holy Family with Two Angels is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Jacques Callot. It dates from 1614 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Holy Family with Two Angels is an etching on laid paper created by Jacques Callot in 1614. It is a print that exemplifies Callot's skill as a French Baroque printmaker.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a biblical scene, showing the Virgin Mary holding the Christ child, surrounded by four angels. The figures are arranged in a harmonious composition, with the angels holding symbolic objects such as a cross and a scroll.

Technique & Style

The etching technique used by Callot allows for intricate details and deep shadows, achieved by retaining ink in the grooves of the metal plate. This results in a high-contrast image with finely rendered faces and fabrics.

History & Provenance

Jacques Callot, from the Duchy of Lorraine, was a prolific artist who produced over 1,400 etchings during his career, documenting various aspects of contemporary life, including religious subjects.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Jacques Callot

Artist

Jacques Callot

Jacques Callot was a baroque printmaker and draftsman from the Duchy of Lorraine.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.