The Holy Family

Nicolás Rodríguez Juarez was a member of one of the most important dynasties of novohispano painters. After the death of his wife, with whom he had eleven children, Nicolás became a priest and, while the priesthood provided for his daily existence, painting helped him provide for his children. He produced some of his most interesting works in the late seventeenth century, among them his earliest signed work, the Prophet Isaiah (Church of San Josi de Real of 1690 known as La Profesa, Mexico City). It is likely that the present painting also dates from around this time.

Other well known works by Juarez include the Portrait of the Marqué de Santa Cruz as a Child and Saint Mary Magdalene (both Pinacoteca Virreinal, Mexico City), the Flight into Egypt dated 1713 (Fine Arts Center, Colorado Springs) and works for Mexico City Cathedral.