Artwork
Virgin and Child with St Anne
Virgin and Child with St Anne is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Dirk van Hoogstraten. It dates from 1630 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.
About this work
Overview
Dirk van Hoogstraten's 'Virgin and Child with St Anne' is a 1630 oil painting depicting an intimate indoor scene of three female figures. The work is part of the Rijksmuseum's collection.
Subject & Meaning
The painting portrays the Virgin Mary, her mother St Anne, and the infant Jesus. St Anne, distinguished by her pale yellow hair and wrinkled face, tenderly interacts with the baby, while Mary, in a prominent red dress, cradles him, emphasizing maternal care and familial devotion.
Technique & Style
Van Hoogstraten employs chiaroscuro, leveraging a small window's faint light against a dark curtain to create depth. The contrast between the vibrant red dress and muted surroundings draws attention to Mary, highlighting her central role.
History & Provenance
Created in 1630, the painting's history prior to its acquisition by the Rijksmuseum is not detailed here, indicating a need for further research into its provenance.
Context
The work reflects 17th-century Dutch religious art's tendency to depict biblical scenes with everyday intimacy. The use of chiaroscuro aligns with contemporary artistic innovations, enhancing the emotional depth of the scene.
Legacy
While specific influences or notable exhibitions of 'Virgin and Child with St Anne' are not highlighted, its presence in the Rijksmuseum suggests its value as a representative of 17th-century Dutch religious painting.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Untitled
A Mother Giving her Child the Breast
The Young Mother
Breakfast
Mother with two children
The Holy Family with Saint Elizabeth and Saint John
The Holy Family with Saints Elizabeth and John the Baptist
The Rest on the Flight from Egypt
The daughters of Cecrops find Erechthonius
Lacemaker
A Housewife Instructing her Maid
'Good Neighbors'