Artwork
Holy Family with Elisabeth and John the Baptist
Holy Family with Elisabeth and John the Baptist is an oil painting by Cornelis van Cleve. It dates from 1520 and is held in the collection of the Groeningemuseum.
About this work
Overview
Holy Family with Elisabeth and John the Baptist is a 16th-century oil painting created by Cornelis van Cleve around 1520. The work features a familial scene centered around a baby, with figures attired in antiquated clothing set against a somber background.
Subject & Meaning
The painting brings together the Holy Family with Elisabeth and the infant John the Baptist, conveying a scene of familial devotion and religious significance. The composition emphasizes the connection among the figures, with the baby at the focal point.
Technique & Style
Executed in oil paint, the work leverages chiaroscuro to achieve pronounced light and dark contrasts, thereby enhancing the visual prominence of the figures. This technique, coupled with the medium's capabilities, results in a detailed and richly textured appearance.
History & Provenance
Cornelis van Cleve, trained in his father Joos van Cleve’s Antwerp workshop and briefly active in London, is attributed with the painting's creation. It is currently part of the Groeningemuseum's collection.
Artist & collection
Artist
Cornelis van Cleve, Cornelis van Cleef or Cornelis van der Beke, nickname Sotte Cleve ('Mad Cleve') (1520 in Antwerp – 1567/1614) was a Flemish Renaissance painter active in Antwerp who is known for his religious compositions and portraits.
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