Artwork
Holy Family with St Catherine
Holy Family with St Catherine is an unspecified painting by the High Renaissance artist Cesare da Sesto. It dates from 1517 and is held in the collection of the Hermitage Museum.
About this work
Overview
Cesare da Sesto's 'Holy Family with St Catherine' is a 1517 religious painting featuring the Holy Family accompanied by St Catherine of Alexandria, now part of the State Hermitage Museum's collection.
Subject & Meaning
The painting portrays the Virgin Mary in a deep blue dress, cradling a barefoot infant Jesus, who gestures towards her. St Joseph, depicted as a balding man in white, stands behind, leaning on a staff with a distracted gaze. St Catherine of Alexandria, in pink, holds a symbolic bundle of reeds and a small book, signifying her martyrdom and wisdom.
Technique & Style
The work employs strong chiaroscuro, with a dark background that sharply delineates the figures, enhancing their presence. A subtle detail, such as the baby's dangling foot, adds a sense of realism to the scene.
History & Provenance
Created in 1517, the painting's history prior to its acquisition by the State Hermitage Museum is not detailed here, highlighting the need for further research into its provenance.
Context
Painted during the Italian Renaissance, 'Holy Family with St Catherine' reflects the era's religious themes and artistic innovations, such as the expressive use of chiaroscuro.
Legacy
As part of the State Hermitage Museum's collection, the painting contributes to the institution's vast repository of Renaissance art, offering insights into 16th-century religious and artistic practices.
Artist & collection
