The artwork titled “Holy Family with Saints Margaret and Francis” was created by Lavinia Fontana in 1578. Rendered in oil on canvas, this piece is representative of the Mannerism (Late Renaissance) art movement. It measures 127 x 104.1 cm and is categorized as a religious painting. The artwork is currently housed in the Davis Museum at Wellesley College, Wellesley, MA, USA.
In this painting, the Holy Family is depicted alongside Saints Margaret and Francis. The central figure is the Blessed Virgin Mary, lovingly holding the infant Jesus. To the left, Saint Margaret appears in a reverent posture, while Saint Francis, distinguished by his brown monastic habit and tonsure, stands behind her. On the right side of the composition, a male figure with a beard, possibly representing Joseph, gazes upon the scene. The tender interaction between the figures is set against a dark, somber background, which enhances the luminescence and detail of their faces and garments. The use of chiaroscuro is evident, contributing to the three-dimensional effect and the emotional depth of this religious tableau.
