Rembrandt (Harmensz. van Rijn)
Self-Portrait, 1629
Eichenholz, 15,6 x 12,7 cm
Inv. Nr. 11427
The Holy Family
Never before was the Holy Family depicted in such a worldly, human way. The Christ Child has had his fill at his mother's breast and has - while drinking - fallen into a gentle sleep. Joseph is bent over the cradle in fatherly tenderness while Mary is leaning towards him from the side, all the while holding her child and warming his feet with her protective hands. The refined light treatment and strong shading emphasize that which is of central importance.