Ask the Scholar

This panel is probably from a wing of an altarpiece devoted to the life of the Virgin. The subject of the marriage of the Virgin and Joseph was particularly popular in the 15th century, reflecting a new emphasis on the family. The Virgin's marriage underlined the importance of all marriages; while the increased recognition of Joseph's role as the foster father of Christ caused him to be represented with increased dignity. The figures reflect the style of Flemish painting about 1500. However, Flemish influence on Spanish art was very strong in these years, and the approach to carving, notably the sculpting of the figures directly against the backdrop, suggests that this panel might have been part of an immense carved altarpiece, called a retable, which was characteristic of Spanish religious art at this period.