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The Holy Family with Saint John the Baptist, attributed to Michelangelo 2nd half of the 18th century - 19th century 1800-1900
How does Michelangelo capture an intimate family portrait whilst representing a significant religious theme?
We believe that this large brush drawing on panel is by Michelangelo Buonarroti (1475-1564). The subject is unclear though the figures shown seem to be the Virgin Mary, the Christ Child, the young St John the Baptist and St Joseph. They are shown in movement, which suggests a narrative, perhaps the return of the Holy Family from Egypt. The purpose of this brush drawing on panel is unknown. Indeed this panel highlights for us questions about categorizing works of art – is this a painting or a drawing? Possibly, it was made as an underdrawing for a painting, but the texture of the prepared surface is quite rough, so it is unlikely that Michelangelo intended to paint over this drawing. It is more likely that this was made as the realization of an idea in a design that could be admired in itself, or could be given to another artist to develop. Gallery 43: Italian Renaissance
