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The Holy Family Under a Tree, by Sebald Beham, ink, 1521

The Holy Family Under a Tree

Sebald Beham

1521

ink

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

Dominant colour

Overview

The Holy Family Under a Tree is a 1521 ink by Sebald Beham, a Renaissance work, depicting Holy Family, held at National Gallery of Art.

Who painted this?
Sebald Beham
When & what style?
1521 · Renaissance
Where can I see it?
National Gallery of Art

About this work

This woodcut shows Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus resting under a leafy tree. The scene feels cozy and quiet, with soft light and simple details. Joseph holds a book while Mary watches Jesus sleep. Sebald Beham made this during the 1500s when woodcuts were a popular way to share images cheaply. The lines are clean but full of small textures—like the tree bark or folds in Mary’s dress. It’s not just a picture; it’s a snapshot of daily life mixed with holiness. If you like this, check out Albrecht Dürer’s woodcuts next.

About the artist

Portrait of Sebald Beham
Artist

Sebald Beham

Sebald Beham (1500–1550) was a German painter and printmaker, mainly known for his very small engravings.

See the richer artist page

More by Sebald Beham

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