Artwork
The Holy Family
The Holy Family is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Guercino. It dates from 1615 and is held in the collection of the Capitoline Museums.
About this work
Overview
The Holy Family is an oil painting created by Guercino in 1615, exemplifying the early Baroque style in Italian art.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts the Holy Family - Mary, Joseph, and the infant Jesus - in an intimate scene. Mary, dressed in red, sits on the left, while Joseph, in brown, sits on the right, holding Jesus. Their gentle interactions convey a sense of tenderness and familial bonding.
Technique & Style
Guercino's early style is characterized by vigorous naturalism and strong chiaroscuro, which creates a sense of depth and volume. The contrast between light and dark accentuates the figures, drawing attention to their emotional connection.
History & Provenance
The painting is now held in the Capitoline Museums, representing an example of Guercino's work from his early period, before he developed a more classical style.
Artist & collection
Artist
Giovanni Francesco Barbieri (8 February 1591 – 22 December 1666), better known as (il) Guercino (Italian pronunciation: ), was an Italian Baroque painter and draftsman from Cento in the Emilia region, who was active in Rome and Bologna.
The Holy Family
The Holy Family
The Holy Family
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