The Holy Family with Two Angels 1598 - 1654

"The Holy Family with Two Angels" is a black chalk drawing on paper by the Italian artist Alessandro Algardi, dating from 1598-1654. The drawing, now in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, depicts the Virgin Mary cradling the infant Jesus, with two angels attending to them. The Holy Family is presented with a sense of serenity and intimacy, emphasizing the divine nature of Jesus and the tender relationship between mother and child. The masterful use of black chalk creates a sense of depth and volume, showcasing Algardi's skill in capturing the human form and the emotional resonance of the subject.