Luisa Roldán “La Roldana”
Saint Joseph, Seville, 1652-Madrid, 1706
1689-1706
Polychrome terracotta
Polychrome terracotta
59 x 21 x 38 cm
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The figure, identified as Saint Joseph, was part of a dispersed group representing the Flight into Egypt. Depicted walking with his right leg forward and left leg behind, Joseph pulls the donkey with a rope while resting on a staff. This iconography, inspired by the Gospel of Matthew, appears in works by Dürer and El Greco. Devotion to Saint Joseph, revived in the 17th century, portrayed him as younger and more approachable. La Roldana's characteristic style and technique suggest her authorship of the terracotta figure, which is larger than usual, hinting at its significance as an important commission. The piece highlights La Roldana's unique approach, presenting a confident, joyful Saint Joseph, which contrasts with the typical portrayal of distress.
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