About this work

Subject & Meaning

The composition depicts the three central figures of this traditional iconographic theme: the Virgin Mary, the Christ Child, and Saint Joseph.

The work is a religious painting classified under the genre of religious art, with the Holy Family serving as its main subject. The composition depicts the three central figures of this traditional iconographic theme: the Virgin Mary, the Christ Child, and Saint Joseph. By presenting these specific individuals together, the artwork represents the nuclear family unit as understood within Christian theology, focusing on their collective identity rather than a specific narrative event.

As a piece held in a major public collection, it functions as a visual meditation on the domestic aspect of the sacred figures.

History & Provenance

The Holy Family is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst. The work is identified by the inventory number KMS 1896, which indicates its accession year. While the specific attribution to an artist remains listed as unknown in museum records, the painting is cataloged as a religious work depicting Mary, the Christ Child, and Joseph. The provided sources do not contain information regarding specific exhibitions where the work has been displayed.

Context

The work is classified as a religious painting depicting Mary, Christ Child, and Joseph within the Holy Family composition, reflecting traditional devotional themes in European religious art. Its creation during the late 19th century situates it within the broader context of religious painting traditions maintained by institutions such as the Statens Museum for Kunst, where it remains part of the collection today.

Overview

The work titled “The Holy Family” presents a tranquil domestic scene centered on the Virgin Mary cradling the infant Christ. Though Joseph does not appear, the composition extends outward to include a modest village with a church, a well, a tree, and a figure feeding ducks, all arranged to convey a balanced, harmonious setting.

Technique & Style

The artist employs a restrained palette that unifies the figures and landscape, while careful placement of forms creates visual equilibrium. Light is diffused across the scene, highlighting Mary and the child without isolating them, and the inclusion of secondary figures and natural details adds depth without detracting from the central focus.