Artwork

The Holy Family in Glory with Saints Francis of Paola and Aloysius Gonzaga

The Holy Family in Glory with Saints Francis of Paola and Aloysius Gonzaga, by Francesco Capella, oil, 1757
The Holy Family in Glory with Saints Francis of Paola and Aloysius Gonzaga, by Francesco Capella, oil, 1757

The Holy Family in Glory with Saints Francis of Paola and Aloysius Gonzaga is an oil painting by Francesco Capella. It dates from 1757 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts Boston.

About this work

Overview

This 18th-century oil painting, created circa 1757 by Venetian artist Francesco Capella (Il Capella), brings together the Holy Family with two revered saints within a celestial setting.

Subject & Meaning

The composition unites the Holy Family (Mary, the Christ child, and Joseph) with Saints Francis of Paola, a mendicant monk, and Aloysius Gonzaga, a youthful figure in prayer, symbolizing spiritual harmony and devotion.

Technique & Style

Capella employed chiaroscuro to dramatic effect, using strong contrasts between light and dark to imbue the floating figures with a sense of glow against a deep, cloudy backdrop, enhancing the scene's depth and emotional resonance.

History & Provenance

Originally commissioned for a religious context, likely in Bergamo given the artist's clientele, the painting is now part of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston's collection.

Context

Reflecting Capella's training under Giovanni Battista Piazzetta, the work blends traditional Venetian religious themes with Baroque lighting techniques, tailored for contemplation in a sacred or state-sponsored setting.

Legacy

While not widely known beyond regional art historical circles, the painting exemplifies late Baroque religious art's enduring appeal through its expressive use of light and composition.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Francesco Capella

Artist

Francesco Capella

Francesco Capella (1714–1784), called Il Capella and Francesco Dagiu, was a student of Giovanni Battista Piazzetta.