On-line gallery
- Reference number
- P01639
- Author
- Rubens, Peter Paul (Flemish)
- Title
- The Holy Family with Saint Ann
- Chronology
- 1626-1630
- Technique
- Support
- Measures
- 115 cm x 90 cm
- School
- Theme
- Shown
- Yes
- Entrance
- COLECCION REAL
- Procedence
- Royal Collection
Standing on the Virgin's lap, the
Christ Child looks affectionately
at his mother, whose bare breast
alludes to her condition as the
source of life. Behind them, Saint
Joseph and Saint Ann contemplate
the Child, reflecting upon his
future as Redeemer.
Rubens used his wife, Isabella
Brant, as the model for the Virgin
in this composition, giving the
work an affectionate and close
feeling that was quite common in
votive works from his mature
period.
In 1667, this painting is listed at
the Monastery of El Escorial, from
whence it entered the Prado Museum
in 1839.
Location on the map
