Artwork
The Dream of Saint Joseph
The Dream of Saint Joseph is an unspecified painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Daniele Crespi. It dates from 1620 and is held in the collection of the Kunsthistorisches Museum.
About this work
Overview
The Dream of Saint Joseph is a 17th-century painting by Daniele Crespi, created on canvas. It is currently housed at the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts the second of Saint Joseph's four dreams, as described in the Gospel of Matthew. An angel appears to Joseph in his sleep, warning him of Herod's intent to kill Jesus and instructing him to flee to Egypt.
Technique & Style
Crespi employs chiaroscuro, using strong contrasts of light and shadow to highlight the figures against a dark background. The angel's red cloak and white sleeves glow, drawing attention to the moment of divine intervention.
Context
The painting illustrates a pivotal moment in the narrative of the Holy Family's escape from persecution, as recounted in Matthew 2:13.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Daniele Crespi (1598 – 19 July 1630) was an Italian painter and draughtsman. He is regarded as one of the most original artists working in Milan in the 1620s. He broke away from the exaggerated manner of Lombard…
