Title: The Holy Family

Artist: Gerard David

The Holy Family About 1520 Gerard David Netherlands, Oudewater about 1455–Bruges 1523 Oil on panel Gerard David innovatively updated a beloved Christian subject by portraying the Holy Family in a contemporary Flemish home. In keeping with the informal domestic setting, the figures are located close to the viewer, who becomes part of the intimate exchange. The tender embrace between the Virgin and her son conveys their loving bond. Nearby, Joseph holds a bowl of porridge-like milk soup. The apples offer poignant references to what lies ahead: the decayed fruit resting on the lid may allude to Christ’s future sacrifice and death, while the unblemished apple in his hand symbolizes his role as the second Adam, Redeemer of humankind.