Spanish or Flemish school of the 17th century. "St. Joseph with Child". Oil on copper. Silver metal frame. With glass. Measurements: 15.5 x 12 cm; 17 x 14 x 1 x 1 cm (frame). Until the Counter-Reformation, the most common thing was that the figure of St. Joseph remained in the background, since it was not given any theological importance. However, after Trent, his leading role as protector of Jesus during his childhood, as a guide during his youth, was recovered, and as such he is represented here. In contrast to the tenderness, defenselessness and candor of the infant figure, St. Joseph is presented as a monumental character, typically baroque, an impression that is reinforced by the pyramidal composition of the image. Through this form of representation, the author visually enhances the decisive role as protector of the putative father of Jesus.