Saint Simeon with the Christ child 1647

Jusepe de Ribera's "Saint Simeon with the Christ Child" (1647) portrays the biblical scene of Simeon holding the infant Jesus. The painting is characterized by Ribera's signature tenebrism, with dramatic contrasts of light and shadow, emphasizing the intense emotion of the moment. Simeon's aged face reflects a mixture of awe and sorrow, anticipating the Christ child's future suffering. The composition, focused on the figures against a dark background, creates a sense of intimacy and reverence, typical of Ribera's religious works. This powerful portrayal of faith and sacrifice has solidified its place as a significant example of Spanish Baroque art.