Guercino
, Italian, 1591-1666
Title
Saint Joseph with the Christ ChildDatec.1637
MediumOil on canvas
Dimensions
99 x 77 cm
Credit LinePurchased, 1882
Object numberNGI.192
Label TextGuercino was renowned for his use of chiaroscuro (light and shade). This painting was originally commissioned for the Ferri chapel, in the Church of San Giovanni in Monte, Bologna. It is not known when it was removed from the church. Depictions of Joseph holding the Christ Child are relatively rare in art. Guercino may have been inspired by his Bolognese contemporary, Guido Reni. Reni painted several versions of the subject, including one in which the infant holds a pink rose (c.1635; Hermitage Museum, St. Petersburg).