Holy Family surrounded by angels 1616 - 1617

Jacob Jordaens painted "Holy Family surrounded by angels" in oil on canvas in Antwerp, the cultural and artistic center of Flanders during the 17th century. The painting presents a vision of domesticity and religious devotion, reflecting the values of the Counter-Reformation in the Catholic-dominated region. Jordaens worked in the shadow of the great Peter Paul Rubens. Note how the dynamic composition, rich color palette, and fleshy figures emulate the master. But Jordaens brings his own sensibilities to bear. He emphasizes the humanity of the Holy Family. The angels are robust and earthly, and the figures are set in a realistic space. The artist’s populist aesthetic reflects a desire to connect with a wider audience, bringing religious art out of the churches and palaces. To understand paintings such as these, we delve into archival records and cultural histories, uncovering the complex interplay between artistic expression and societal values.