Our image of St. Joseph Guardian of Sons is a depth-filled painting about fatherhood, the life of St. Joseph, and Christ as God-Man. This painting was made by Melchior Paul von Deschwanden, a Swiss artist, in the 19th century. A tender and contemplative St. Joseph - the foster father of Jesus - is depicted with the Christ child resting on his lap. Jesus is petting an ewe, foreshadowing his sacrifice as the "Lamb of God," and St. John the Baptist, pictured as a young boy holding a cross with the "Agnus Dei" proclamation, kneels and devotedly kisses Christ's foot. With forehead scrunched in contemplation, the tender foster father of God takes in the scene, presumably contemplating the great sacrifice that his Son will make and the Divinity of his child. A rod of lilies points to his great purity and the legend of how he was chosen to be the spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and the axe next to him points to the hard work and labor he accomplished for his family throughout his life. The scene takes place in the clouds, a place of heavenly contemplation. As an altarpiece, von Deschwanden's piece rests in Kastelruth, Italy.
This image comes as a fine art print under premium clear glass in a classic gold frame. Handcrafted in Steubenville, Ohio, this touching devotional piece is sure to be treasured for years to come! St. Joseph, pray for us!
~Sizes listed are of the image only~
( NW-1428-2 )
