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The Holy Family with Saint John the Baptist
Andrea Mantegnaabout 1500
The National Gallery, London
London, United Kingdom
The subject matter and the composition (which may have been cut down) are unusual.
John the Baptist points to the infant Christ, who holds an olive branch, symbolising peace, and, as Saviour of the World, a globe. They stand on a curved parapet enclosing the Virgin Mary, who appears to be sewing, although the paint is so rubbed that this is no longer clear. Saint Joseph stands behind, looking away.
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Details
- Title: The Holy Family with Saint John the Baptist
- Creator: Andrea Mantegna
- Date Created: about 1500
- Physical Dimensions: 71.1 x 50.8 cm
- Type: Painting
- Medium: Glue size on canvas
- School: Italian (North)
- More Info: Explore the National Gallery’s paintings online
- Inventory number: NG5641
- Artist Dates: about 1430/1 - 1506
- Artist Biography: His first important commission came in 1448, painting frescoes for the Eremitani Chapel in Padua. He worked in Padua, Verona and Venice before moving to Mantua in 1460, where he spent the rest of his life. The great paintings by Mantegna in the Gallery date from his years in Mantua as court artist to the Gonzaga. His scholarly interest in the antique drew him into friendship with humanist scholars like Felice Feliciano. In 1464 they dressed up as Romans for a boating excursion on Lake Garda. In the 'Triumphs of Caesar' Mantegna indulged his interest in antique art, which can also be seen in the Gallery's 'Cult of Cybele'. He developed a painting technique which enabled him to imitate the look of classical sculpture. Mantegna produced engravings which helped spread his designs and fame beyond Italy. From possibly humble origins Mantegna rose to become a valued retainer of the Gonzaga. He was knighted by 1484, a rare honour for an artist.
- Acquisition Credit: Mond Bequest, 1924; entered the Collection in 1946
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