BRONZINO, AGNOLO (1503-1572)

Agnolo Bronzino: Holy Family with St. John Click on the picture to see an enlarged version. Oil on canvas, 1528 191.3 x 78.7 cm (39 7/8 x 31 in) National Gallery of Art Samuel H. Kress Collection

This early painting by Bronzino shows a young Holy Family being visited by Mary's cousin Elizabeth and her child, John the Baptist. While Elizabeth gazes longingly at the Christ Child, John presents his traditional pointing finger. This painting is typically mannerist: with elongated figures and unnatural colors. As a result, the whole composition appears artificial and and somewhat esoteric.

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