The Holy Family with Saint Catherine, Saint John the Evangelist and an Angel 1612 - 1616

Jacques Bellange created this print, “The Holy Family with Saint Catherine, Saint John the Evangelist and an Angel,” around the turn of the 17th century. Bellange lived during a time of religious and political upheaval in Europe, which shaped his artistic vision. Here, the traditional Christian scene is reimagined through the lens of Mannerism, an aesthetic that favored elongated figures, stylized poses, and complex compositions. What does it mean to see a sacred image infused with such theatricality? Note the figures of Saint Catherine and Saint John, who were often symbols of learning and devotion. Their inclusion suggests a dialogue between faith and intellectual inquiry, reflecting the complex relationship between religious belief and Renaissance humanism. Bellange's etching invites us to contemplate the intersection of faith, identity, and artistic expression. It challenges us to consider how artists navigate their cultural contexts, and how personal experiences influence representations of religious narratives.