The artwork you referred to as “The Holy Family with St. Elizabeth” by Peter Paul Rubens, which dates back to 1614 – 1615, appears to have been misidentified. The provided image does not depict the described painting; rather, it is “The Entombment” which is another masterpiece by the same artist, Peter Paul Rubens. This oil on wood painting is an exquisite example of the Baroque movement, characterized by its dramatic use of light and shadow, as well as its emotional intensity and dynamic figures. Measuring 114 cm by 80 cm, this religious painting can typically be found in the Palazzo Pitti in Florence, Italy.
The artwork reveals a scene of profound sorrow and depicts the moment after Christ’s crucifixion when his body is being prepared for burial. A group of figures, emotionally overwhelmed, gently supports Christ’s lifeless body. Here, we see Mary Magdalene on the right, her hand to her face in a gesture of despair, while St. John supports Christ’s upper body with a pained and reverent expression. The Virgin Mary is likely the figure holding Christ’s hand, looking up towards the heavens with a look of sorrowful resignation. Meanwhile, to the left, an elderly man, possibly Joseph of Arimathea, gazes intently towards the central group. The use of chiaroscuro is prominently displayed here, with the dramatic illumination highlighting the pale, limp body of Christ and creating a stark contrast with the surrounding darkness. The bas-relief on the tomb’s side suggests the ultimate triumph over death, foreshadowing the resurrection. This work conveys the intense emotion and physicality that are hallmarks of Rubens’ style and the Baroque period.
