Holy Family with the Infant Saint John the Baptist
Artist
Nicolas Poussin
(French, 1594 - 1665)
Date1655
CultureFrench
MediumOil on canvas
ClassificationPaintings
Credit LineBequest of John Ringling, 1936
Object numberSN361
These statue-like life-size figures are among the finest examples of Poussin's late style, which was called the "Magnificent Manner." In these late paintings, Poussin turned away from the observation of nature and toward a nearly abstract geometry. Here, there is little movement, but rather the majestic raising of the infant Christ child's hand as he imperiously blesses the young St. John the Baptist. His parents, Mary and Joseph, resemble hollow-eyed ancient bronzes. While a grandiose and moving statement of faith, the painting can also seem strangely unreal.
On View
On viewLocation
DimensionsFrame: 96 1/2 × 69 1/2 × 5 1/2 in., 300 lb. (245.1 × 176.5 × 14 cm, 136.1 kg)- Museum of Art, Gallery 07, Wall North
Image: 78 1/4 x 51 1/2 in. (198.8 x 130.8 cm)
Nicolas Lancret
