Holy Family with Saint Francis 1610

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Holy Family with Saint Francis of Assisi – Angelo Caroselli (c. 1610–1620)

This Baroque painting, housed in the Museum of Zevallos Stigliano Palace in Naples, depicts the Holy Family accompanied by Saint Francis of Assisi. Caroselli, active mainly in Rome, was known for his innovative approach to religious and genre subjects, often blending naturalism with the dramatic chiaroscuro inspired by Caravaggio. In this work, the figures are rendered with striking realism: the Christ Child and the Virgin Mary are illuminated by a soft, focused light that contrasts with the shadowed background, while Saint Francis kneels in adoration, his humble devotion highlighted through careful modeling and expressive gestures.

Caroselli’s compositions often feature colorful, contemporary characters and a sense of immediacy, and this Nativity is no exception. The painting reflects his search for originality within the Baroque style, emphasizing emotional intensity and spiritual intimacy rather than monumental grandeur. Known also as a restorer, copyist, and occasional forger, Caroselli brought a unique sensibility to his religious works, balancing devotional solemnity with vivid naturalism.

In this intimate Nativity scene, the Christ Child rests in the Virgin Mary’s lap, drawing the viewer’s attention as the focal point of the composition. Saint Francis kneels reverently to the side, hands clasped in prayer, his gaze fixed on the infant, while Joseph stands slightly behind, observing the holy moment with quiet devotion. Caroselli uses chiaroscuro to dramatic effect: a soft, concentrated light falls on the figures’ faces and upper bodies, creating depth and highlighting the textures of their garments, while the background recedes into shadow, emphasizing the spiritual intimacy of the scene. Subtle details—such as the folds of Mary’s robes, the delicate gesture of the Christ Child reaching toward Francis, and the expressive posture of Joseph—imbue the work with both naturalism and devotional warmth. The composition balances realism and emotion, allowing the viewer to feel present within this quiet, sacred moment.

Caroselli was also active as an art restorer, copyist, and, possibly, forger.

This work is allocated in the Museum of Zevallos Stigliano Palace in Naples

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This image is a public domain image, which means either that copyright has expired in the image or the copyright holder has waived their copyright. Franciscan Gallery charges for the access to high resolution copy of the image. Manually restoration was necessary in order to improve quality, without covering the original image.