“The Holy Family With St. John, The Magdalen And Nicodemus” is a religious painting by Albrecht Dürer, created in 1512 during the Northern Renaissance. It is presently held in a private collection. The artwork encompasses themes and figures central to Christian theology, illustrating a gathering of key biblical personalities around the Holy Family.
In describing the artwork, the central figure is the Virgin Mary, who holds the Christ Child tenderly in her lap. To her right sits an elderly man, likely representing Nicodemus, a figure who, according to the Bible, visited Jesus at night to seek his teachings. To Mary’s left, we see another female figure with a contemplative expression, possibly Mary Magdalen. A young St. John the Baptist stands behind Mary, identifiable by his youthful appearance and proximity to Christ, as he is often depicted in religious art. The figures are arranged in a serene and intimate setting, suggestive of a divine familial bond and Christian fellowship.
The engraving is executed with fine detail, capturing not only the softness of the subjects’ garments but also the emotional gravity of the scene. Dürer’s mastery of the medium is evident in the intricate lines and shading that give depth and texture to the composition. The facial expressions and body language of the figures convey a sense of quiet devotion and reverence. This work exemplifies Dürer’s skill in portraying religious iconography with both technical precision and emotional resonance, characteristic of the Northern Renaissance’s approach to visual art.
