Holy Family
This engaging group of the Virgin and Child with Saint Joseph was once the centerpiece of a large altarpiece. The Virgin and Child face in the same direction as the Child raises his right hand in blessing. Their posture suggests they may have been part of Holy Kinship group with Saint Anne or of an Adoration of the Magi. The orb in his left hand symbolizes Christ’s role as spiritual ruler of the world.
Artwork Details
- Title: Holy Family
- Artist: Niclaus Weckmann (German, 1481–ca. 1526)
- Date: ca. 1500
- Culture: South German
- Medium: Limewood with traces of paint and gilding
- Dimensions: Overall: 31 7/8 x 19 11/16 x 7 3/4 in. (81 x 50 x 19.7 cm)
- Classification: Sculpture-Wood
- Credit Line: Gift of Alastair Bradley Martin, 1948
- Object Number: 48.154.1
- Curatorial Department: Medieval Art and The Cloisters
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