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Holy Families & Madonna and Child

Holy Families & Madonna and Child

CHERUBINO ALBERTI (1553-1615)

Holy Family with the Child reading a book

c.1553-1605

Engraving | 28.1 x 21.6 cm (sheet of paper) | RCIN 851127

A print reproducing a composition formerly thought to be by Raphael. The composition is known through paintings and prints crediting Raphael with the invention. However, there is no record of a painting by Raphael of this composition. With the engraver's monogram at lower left (see Nagler, I, no.261).

Showing the Christ Child holding a book with both hands while looking up at His mother who stands behind a balustrade with St Joseph holding a staff; in an interior.
  • Creator(s)

    Cherubino Alberti (1553-1615) (engraver)

    After a work previously attributed to Raphael (Urbino 1483-Rome 1520) (artist)

  • 28.1 x 21.6 cm (sheet of paper)

  • Added to the Prince Consort's Raphael Collection (c.1853-76)

  • Subject(s)
    • Religion & Theology
      • Religions and faiths
        • Christianity
          • Devotional Images of Christ
            • Virgin & Child
              • Virgin & Child with Saints
                • Virgin & Child with Saints-Holy Family
              • Virgin & Child-Reading a book
          • Life of Christ
            • Infancy of Christ
              • Christ Child