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Italian, 'The Holy Family', 16th century

About the work

In this painting, probably made for private devotion, the infant Christ stands on the Virgin Mary’s lap and reaches up to embrace her. With his right hand he points up at her face. Saint Joseph looks on at the right, his hands crossed over his chest in reverence. In one hand he appears to hold a staff, and in the other he seems to hold either a carpenter’s square (referring to his profession) or a book.

The very dark background from which Saint Joseph emerges makes it difficult to see the details. The picture is damaged in many places by long vertical cracks probably caused by shrinking of the wooden panel on which it is painted.

This is one of a group of paintings by an as yet unidentified artist. It was once thought to be by Sodoma as it bears some resemblance to his style.

Key facts

Full title
The Holy Family
Artist
Italian
Date made
16th century
Medium and support
oil on wood
Dimensions
49.5 × 38.4 cm
Acquisition credit
Layard Bequest, 1916
Inventory number
NG3125
Location
Not on display
Collection
Main Collection
Previous owners

About this record

If you know more about this painting or have spotted an error, please contact us. Please note that exhibition histories are listed from 2009 onwards. Bibliographies may not be complete; more comprehensive information is available in the National Gallery Library.

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