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The Holy Family by Godfried Schalcken

Godfried Schalcken · 1679-01-01

In *The Holy Family*, painted around 1690, Godfried Schalcken, a master of candlelight, creates a scene where all illumination emanates from a single, expertly rendered candle. This oil painting, part of the Statens Museum for Kunst collection, perfectly showcases his signature technique.

Observe how the soft, flickering light from the candle on the table illuminates the tender faces of Mary and Joseph, and the infant Jesus. The glow also brings out the vibrant red of Mary’s dress, creating a striking contrast with the deep shadows that define the rest of the composition.

Schalcken was renowned during the Dutch Golden Age for his genre scenes and portraits, particularly his ability to capture the effect of candlelight. This work exemplifies the *fijnschilder* (fine painting) style, characterized by meticulous detail and refined brushwork, giving the painting an almost ethereal quality.

How does this controlled use of light deepen your connection to the scene?

Details

But its glow paints every face.
But its glow paints every face.
And catches the brilliant red of her dress.
And catches the brilliant red of her dress.
Her weathered features and concerned expression add a layer of human depth and perhaps foreboding.
Her weathered features and concerned expression add a layer of human depth and perhaps foreboding.
Transcript

This painter was famous for one trick. Look closely at the candle flame. Its light is the only light in this painting. But its glow paints every face. And catches the brilliant red of her dress. He made the painting glow from within.