The artwork, titled “Holy Family with St. John the Baptist,” was crafted by the artist Caravaggio around the year 1603. This piece, executed in oil on canvas, belongs to the Baroque art movement and measures 117.5 x 96 cm. Classified as a religious painting, it is currently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art (Met) in New York City, NY, US.
The artwork portrays an intimate and tender moment within the Holy Family. The composition prominently features the Virgin Mary, who carries the young Christ Child in her arms. Christ is depicted leaning towards the viewer, partially clothed in a way that emphasizes his humanity and vulnerability. Saint Joseph is present, offering a protective and contemplative presence, his face showing a gentle concern. The young St. John the Baptist is depicted in a gesture of adoration towards Christ, establishing a connection that hints at his future role in Jesus’s life. The use of dramatic lighting, characteristic of Caravaggio’s work, highlights the figures against a dark background, accentuating the emotional depth and realism in their expressions. The folds of the garments and the delicate details enhance the lifelike quality for which Caravaggio is renowned, showcasing his mastery in capturing human emotion and divine grace.
