The Holy Family with Saint Anne (ca. 1625–35, Met-Objekt 1162)
Original title: The Holy Family with Saint Anne
kurzbeschreibung
Schelte Adams à Bolswert made this engraving around 1625–35. It presents the Holy Family together with Saint Anne. Mary, Joseph, the Christ Child and Anne are gathered in an interior as an intimate group.
Description
Mary sits in front with the Christ Child on her lap. Joseph stands to the left, resting a hand on her gently; on the right, Saint Anne turns toward the children. The garments reflect Renaissance fashion. A column and plants break up the wall, and beyond it the room opens onto a landscape of trees and sky. The arrangement feels balanced, the figures naturally related to one another. Light falls evenly, while line and hatching draw out details of fabric and faces.
Context
Bolswert (1586–1659) was a Netherlandish engraver known for his reproductions after paintings by Peter Paul Rubens. The print belongs to the Baroque, a period when religious subjects were common in printed graphics. The Holy Family with Anne was a popular motif that emphasized family bonds and Anne's role as grandmother. The sheet appeared in two states; the first is considered especially rare.
Impact
From the first glance, the calm balance of the figures holds the eye, creating a harmonious, intimate mood. Precise linework and even light give the image a clear, unhurried effect. The viewer is encouraged to follow the details attentively.
Technique
For an engraving, lines are cut into a metal plate. Fine hatching and cross-hatching build tonal values and shadows that give the figures volume and model the depth of the space. The impression is trimmed to a sheet, so the edges of the image reach the paper's edge directly.
AI-generated description text
Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)