Artwork

The Holy Family

The Holy Family, by Francesco Amato, 1625
The Holy Family, by Francesco Amato, 1625

The Holy Family is a print by the Baroque artist Francesco Amato. It dates from 1625 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Holy Family, a 1625 print by Francesco Amato, depicts a serene domestic scene of the Holy Family. Currently housed at The Cleveland Museum of Art, this work showcases a tender moment among its figures.

Subject & Meaning

The composition centers on the mother and child, with the father observing from behind, emphasizing the emotional bond between the figures through their gentle interactions.

Technique & Style

Characterized by soft, gentle lines and a pronounced use of chiaroscuro, the print exemplifies Baroque aesthetics, leveraging light and shadow to create depth and warmth.

History & Provenance

Created in 1625 by Francesco Amato, the print's provenance is currently traced to The Cleveland Museum of Art, though detailed ownership history prior to its museum acquisition is not specified here.

Context

Emerging from the Baroque period, this work reflects the era's emphasis on emotional intensity and dramatic lighting, common in religious themes of the time.

Legacy

While not broadly recognized as a seminal work, The Holy Family contributes to the broader understanding of Baroque printmaking and its interpretation of religious subjects.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Francesco Amato

Artist

Francesco Amato

Francesco Amato (1590–1650) was an Italian artist, born in Naples.

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