Who painted The Holy Family with the Butterfly?

The Holy Family with the Butterfly was painted by Albrecht Dürer in 1495.

Where can I see The Holy Family with the Butterfly?

The Holy Family with the Butterfly is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is The Holy Family with the Butterfly?

The Holy Family with the Butterfly is associated with Renaissance.

Artwork

The Holy Family with the Butterfly

Albrecht Dürer , 1495

The Holy Family with the Butterfly is a print by the Renaissance artist Albrecht Dürer. It dates from 1495 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Accession no.: 1925.73
Credit line: Gift of Ralph King

About this work

Overview

The Holy Family with the Butterfly is a print created by Albrecht Dürer around 1495, showcasing his expertise in combining religious themes with symbolic elements within a domestic setting.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts the Virgin Mary with the Christ Child and Saint Joseph in a humble, everyday environment. A butterfly near Mary’s hand symbolizes resurrection, adding a layer of spiritual significance to the scene.

Technique & Style

Characterized by sharp lines and effective use of shadows to create depth, this engraving exemplifies Dürer’s mastery of printmaking techniques prevalent in the German Renaissance.

History & Provenance

Originally created in the late 15th century, the work is now part of the Cleveland Museum of Art’s collection, reflecting its enduring value as a Renaissance piece.

Context

Produced during Dürer’s rise to prominence, this piece aligns with the broader Renaissance movement, which emphasized detailed realism and religious themes in art.