The Virgin and Child with St. Elizabeth and the Infant St. John the Baptist 1615

The Virgin and Child with St. Elizabeth and the Infant St. John the Baptist, painted in 1615 by Flemish artist Peter Paul Rubens, is a poignant depiction of the Virgin Mary and her son, Jesus, with Saint Elizabeth and her son, John the Baptist. The painting is renowned for its rich colors, dramatic use of light and shadow, and lifelike figures, characteristic of Rubens' style, often called Baroque. The composition features a tender interaction between the children, with John the Baptist, depicted as a child, presenting Jesus with a lamb, a symbol of Christ's sacrifice. The painting's warmth and emotional resonance have captivated audiences for centuries, making it a significant example of Baroque art.