Artwork

Joseph and the Christ Child

Joseph and the Christ Child, by German 15th Century, ink, 1500
Joseph and the Christ Child, by German 15th Century, ink, 1500

Joseph and the Christ Child is an ink print by the Renaissance artist German 15th Century. It dates from 1500 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

This circular engraving depicts a tender scene of Joseph and the Christ Child set against a green background, characterized by intricate details, fine lines, and selective hand-coloring in red and green.

Subject & Meaning

The subject focuses on the intimate relationship between Joseph and the Christ Child, conveying warmth and vulnerability through their gentle interaction, emphasized by the strategic use of color.

Technique & Style

The engraving showcases Renaissance artistic sensibilities through its meticulous rendering of textures and depth, with hand-colored accents in red (Joseph's robe) and green (background and cloak) enhancing the visual appeal.

Context

Created within the Renaissance movement, this piece reflects the era's emphasis on detailed craftsmanship and emotive religious themes, aligning with the period's artistic values.

Artist & collection

Portrait of German 15th Century

Artist

German 15th Century

This 15th-century German artist carved vivid religious scenes into metal and wood, then hand-painted them in bright, symbolic colors.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.