Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione (1609-1664)

Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione

God the Father regarding the Infant Christ 

Rome, 1645-7

Etching

Plate: 260 x 200 mm, mount: 557 x 406 mm

Castiglione represents the Holy Family as natural human figures. A plump infant Christ sleeps peacefully, watched by the Virgin Mary and an unusually tangible and human God. Catistiglione was greatly influenced by Rembrandt’s chiaroscuro etchings of the 1630s. He uses the contrast of light and dark and swirling hatched lines to create depth and volume. The divine light shining on the family and the dark shadowy classical ruins, a symbol of fragility and decay, create a mysterious atmosphere that at once celebrates the infant Christ and predicts his future sacrifice.

Purchased 1991 (No. 91.3)

WORKS ON PAPER

We show a rotating selection of works on paper in our two Print Bay Displays.

If you wish to view a work not currently on display, you can make an appointment to see it in the Prints and Drawings Study Room.

Book a viewing appointment

Study room visits must be booked at least a week in advance.

Please visit our dedicated page for more information and to request an appointment.