Artwork

The Holy Family

The Holy Family, by Francisco de Zurbarán, oil, 1659
The Holy Family, by Francisco de Zurbarán, oil, 1659

The Holy Family is an oil painting by the Baroque artist Francisco de Zurbarán. It dates from 1659 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts, Budapest.

About this work

Overview

The Holy Family is a 1659 oil painting by Francisco de Zurbarán, portraying a serene scene of the Holy Family. It is part of the collection at the Museum of Fine Arts in Budapest.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts Mary holding the infant Jesus, with Joseph standing beside them, expressing gentle devotion. The composition conveys tenderness, particularly through Mary's nurturing grasp of the baby.

Technique & Style

Zurbarán employed chiaroscuro to create depth and volume, contrasting warm, toned clothing against a dark, muted background, focusing viewer attention on the central figures.

History & Provenance

Created in 1659, the work is now held in the permanent collection of the Museum of Fine Arts, Budapest.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Francisco de Zurbarán

Artist

Francisco de Zurbarán

Francisco de Zurbarán was a Spanish Baroque painter. He is known primarily for his religious paintings depicting monks, nuns, and martyrs, and for his still-lifes. Zurbarán gained the nickname "Spanish Caravaggio",…