The Holy Family and Saint John the Baptist
Technical details
Author:
José Vergara
Title:
The Holy Family and Saint John the Baptist
Timeline:
c. 1790-1798
Technique:
Oil on canvas
Description
The Holy Family and Saint John the Baptist is an important work by the Valencian artist José Vergara, who was director of painting at the San Carlos Royal Academy of Fine Arts of Valencia. It is in the Neoclassical Academic style influenced by Mengs, both in composition and the treatment given to the figures of the Virgin Mary and Saint Joseph, elegant and with restrained expression; in the long brushstrokes and polished finish of the paint; and in the balanced and somewhat cold colouring. The Infant Jesus lifts his mother's kerchief playfully, while an infant Saint John watches him, clasping his hands reverently. It is completed by references to Classical Antiquity through the crib and clay pot on the floor.
Location in the museum
You may find this artwork on Floor 2 Goya Hall