Holy Family

Niclaus Weckmann

ca. 1500 · Limewood with traces of paint and gilding · Medieval Art

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.

Artist

Niclaus Weckmann

Date

ca. 1500

Medium

Limewood with traces of paint and gilding

Culture

South German

Department

Medieval Art

Credit line

Gift of Alastair Bradley Martin, 1948