The Holy Family, in a circle

Art Historical Context

Nestled in the intimate circular format of a tondo, *The Holy Family, in a Circle* is a tender 17th-century Italian etching attributed to the enigmatic artist Daman, or possibly anonymous. Created between 1640 and 1660, this small print (measuring just 7 3/4 × 7 1/2 inches) captures Mary, Joseph, and the Christ Child in a devotional embrace, evoking the warmth of family piety central to Catholic art during the Baroque era. Such circular compositions, rooted in Renaissance traditions, were revived in prints for their harmonious, jewel-like appeal, perfect for personal altars or collectors' cabinets. Etching, the medium here, revolutionized printmaking in the 17th century by allowing artists to draw fluidly on a metal plate with acid-resistant ground, then bite lines into copper with acid for rich, expressive tones. This technique suited the intricate details of religious scenes, making high-quality reproductions affordable for the devout middle class amid the Counter-Reformation's push for accessible spirituality. Daman's (or the anonymous master's) subtle linework brings a sense of intimacy and motion to the Holy Family, highlighting their humanity. Acquired through the Harris Brisbane Dick Fund in 1926, this gem from the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Drawings and Prints department exemplifies how 17th-century Italian prints bridged elite painting and popular devotion, inviting viewers today to ponder timeless themes of love and faith in a glance.

About the Artist

Daman|Anonymous, Italian, 17th century (Italian|Italian or French) · 1629 |1640 –1657 |1660

Italian, Genoa 1629–1657 Genoa|Italian or French, active 1640–60