St Joseph in Art History

One way of getting to know more about the life of Saint Jospeh is through depictions of him in works of art throughout the centuries. We will post a new work of art each month. We hope you enjoy. 

Up to about the 17th century Joseph tends to be depicted as a man advanced in years, with grey hair, often balding, occasionally frail, a comparatively marginal figure alongside Mary and Jesus if not entirely in the background, passive other than when leading them on their flight to Egypt. 

In recent centuries – in step with a growing interest in Joseph's role in Gospel exegesis – he himself has become a focal figure in representations of the Holy Family. He is now often portrayed as a younger or even youthful man. Click here to read more and to view a chronology of Saint Jospeh's life in art.

The Presentation of the Temple (1648)
by  Philippe de Champaigne  (1602–1674)
Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium

On February 2nd, the Church celebrates the feast of the Presentation of the Lord which occurs forty days after the birth of Jesus. It is also known as Candlemas day, since the blessing and procession of candles is included in today's liturgy. We also celebrate the 25th World Day for Consecrated Life.