Artwork
Saint Joseph (Brussels)
Saint Joseph (Brussels) is an oil painting by the Flemish Baroque painting artist Philippe de Champaigne. It dates from 1656 and is held in the collection of the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium.
About this work
Overview
Philippe de Champaigne's 1656 painting, Saint Joseph (Brussels), is an oil-on-canvas work held by the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium. It exemplifies the artist's output during a prolific period.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts Saint Joseph standing in a dark landscape, wearing a blue shirt and orange robe, and holding an axe and lily. The lily and his attire identify him as a religious figure, likely Saint Joseph, a subject common in 17th-century religious art.
Technique & Style
Rendered in oil paint, the work reflects the Flemish Baroque style, characterized by dramatic lighting and intense emotion. The contrast between the dark background and the subject's clothing is a notable aspect of the composition.
History & Provenance
Created in 1656 by Philippe de Champaigne, a founding member of the Académie royale de peinture et de sculpture, the painting is now part of the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium's collection.
Artist & collection
Artist
Philippe de Champaigne (French pronunciation: ; 26 May 1602 – 12 August 1674) was a Brabant-born French Baroque era painter, a major exponent of French Baroque painting.
Museum
Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium
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