Holy Family
c. 1510
Monogrammist GG Netherlandish, early 16th century
Flanders
In this representation of the Holy Family, the crowned Virgin Mary stands at left, holding a garland of roses, a flower associated with purity and healing. In the center, the infant Jesus reaches for this garland, as well as a branch of lilies held by Saint Joseph. Above the trio, the Holy Spirit is represented in the form of a dove, while God the Father is seated on a cloud surrounded by four angels playing musical instruments. The initials “GG” at the bottom right refer to the monogram of an unknown master who possibly lived at the beginning of the 16th century.
Engraving on paper