The Holy Family

The Holy Family

Pierre Brebiette

1630

ink

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

About this work

This etching shows a family of four in a rocky landscape. The mother sits wrapped in a loose robe, holding a baby on her lap. Two bare-chested children kneel beside her—one reaching up, the other sitting with a curious gaze. The scene feels intimate, with soft folds in the cloth and careful attention to their hands and faces. The artist used sharp lines to show texture, like the rough rocks and the mother’s fabric. Notice how the children’s poses look natural, almost like they’re moving. Want to see more? Check out etching to learn how artists like this made detailed prints.

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