Artwork

The Virgin and Child with Sts. Elizabeth and John the Baptist

The Virgin and Child with Sts. Elizabeth and John the Baptist, by Peter Paul Rubens, oil, 1632
The Virgin and Child with Sts. Elizabeth and John the Baptist, by Peter Paul Rubens, oil, 1632

The Virgin and Child with Sts. Elizabeth and John the Baptist is an oil painting by the Flemish Baroque painting artist Peter Paul Rubens. It dates from 1632 and is held in the collection of the Fitzwilliam Museum. The Virgin and Child with Sts.

About this work

Overview

The Virgin and Child with Sts. Elizabeth and John the Baptist is a 1632 oil painting by Peter Paul Rubens, a Flemish artist. It is now part of the Fitzwilliam Museum's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts the Virgin Mary holding the Christ Child, accompanied by St. Elizabeth and the young St. John the Baptist, creating a tender scene of familial interaction.

Technique & Style

The work showcases Rubens' mastery of chiaroscuro, using strong contrasts of light and dark to create a three-dimensional effect. The use of rich colors, particularly the Virgin's bright red dress, adds depth and visual interest to the composition.

Context

The painting is characteristic of the Flemish Baroque movement, known for its dynamic and emotionally charged works.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Peter Paul Rubens

Artist

Peter Paul Rubens

Sir Peter Paul Rubens ( ROO-bənz; Dutch: ; 28 June 1577 – 30 May 1640) was a Flemish artist and diplomat.

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