Hl. Sippe

Benvenuto Tisi da Garofalo's Hl. Sippe (Holy Kinship) belongs to a devotional type popular in the early sixteenth century depicting the extended family of Christ. As Ferrara's leading painter following Dosso Dossi, Garofalo produced numerous works for the Este court and local religious institutions. The Holy Kinship subject, showing the Virgin, Saint Anne, and related family members, had particular appeal in a period when dynastic family values were being promoted by both secular rulers and the Church. Garofalo's Raphaelesque figure types lend classical dignity to this intimate family gathering.

The multi-figure composition groups the holy relatives in a warm, harmonious arrangement. Garofalo's Ferrarese palette and the Raphaelesque grace of the figures create an intimate family scene elevated by sacred purpose.