Who painted Holy Tribe?

Holy Tribe was painted by Bernhard Strigel in 1520-01-01.

Where can I see Holy Tribe?

Holy Tribe is held by Kunsthistorisches Museum.

What movement is Holy Tribe?

Holy Tribe is associated with Northern Renaissance.

Holy Tribe by Bernhard Strigel (1520) · Meaning & Museum

About this work

Subject & Meaning

The painting presents the Holy Kinship, a devotional grouping that includes Jesus, Mary, Joseph, John the Baptist, Elizabeth, Zechariah, Saint Anne and Joachim.

The painting presents the Holy Kinship, a devotional grouping that includes Jesus, Mary, Joseph, John the Baptist, Elizabeth, Zechariah, Saint Anne and Joachim. By assembling these figures together, the composition underscores the familial network surrounding Christ and reflects early sixteenth‑century emphasis on sacred kinship. Executed in 1520 by Bernhard Strigel, the work was intended for the Kunsthistorisches Museum, where it remains part of the collection.

Its iconography draws on established religious symbolism to convey theological unity within the Holy Family and its extended relations.

History & Provenance

The painting Holy Tribe was created in 1520 by the German artist Bernhard Strigel. The work, which depicts the Holy Kinship including figures such as Jesus Christ, Mary, and Joseph, has been part of the collection at the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna. While the specific details regarding its original commission or the full chain of ownership prior to its museum acquisition are not detailed in the available records, the work's inception is firmly established at the year 1520.

Bernhard Strigel's painting Holy Tribe, completed in 1520, is held in the collection of the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna. The work depicts the Holy Kinship, featuring figures such as Jesus Christ, Mary, Joseph, and various saints including Saint Anne and Joachim. While the museum location is confirmed, the provided sources do not list a specific inventory or accession number for this piece. Additionally, no exhibition history or past display records are documented in the available references.

Overview

Bernhard Strigel, a German painter associated with the Swabian school, completed Holy Tribe in 1520. This religious panel painting exemplifies the Northern Renaissance style prevalent at the time. The work depicts key biblical figures, presented with the characteristic detail of the period. It is currently housed in the collection of the Kunsthistorisches Museum.

Technique & Style

Strigel’s approach aligns with Northern Renaissance conventions, emphasizing meticulous detail in both figures and attire. The background is rendered in a dark tone, adorned with intricate gold patterns that suggest a sacred space. The figures' faces convey a sense of calm solemnity, while their elaborate clothing reflects the period's taste for rich textures and patterns. Latin inscriptions are visible along the painting's borders, further integrating textual and visual elements.

Artist & collection

Artist

Bernhard Strigel

Bernhard Strigel (c. 1461 – 4 May 1528) was a German portrait and historical painter of the Swabian school, the most important of a family of artists established at Memmingen. He was born at Memmingen and was probably a…