The Silent Knight: A History of St. Joseph as Depicted in Art

by Elizabeth Lev

Images of St Joseph are ubiquitous in the modern Catholic devotional landscape with his statues and figurines standing sentinel in every church and creche, but this was not always the case. The husband of Mary and foster father of Jesus spent the first centuries of Christian art as a great absentee, unaccounted for in visual representations of Christ’s birth and infancy.

The Silent Knight explores and chronicles the remarkable rise of Joseph’s iconography through masterpieces by some of history’s greatest artists. The first depictions of Joseph appeared in the fifth century, gradually evolving as the Church grew, accompanying the faithful through the vicissitudes of ecclesiastical history. Josephine imagery adapted at various times to provide inspirational role models for fathers, husbands, workers, the moribund, and even the pope, depending on the circumstances, leading to a striking variety of depictions in the history of art.

Each chapter of this book reveals a different facet of Joseph, contextualized in the history, spirituality, or controversy of the age, and demonstrates how artists applied their creative talents to communicate Joseph’s intercessory power to their audiences. Through the words and prayers of Saints Bernard of Clairvaux, Francis of Assisi, Bridget of Sweden, Francis de Sales, Teresa of Avila, Pius IX, and John Paul II, readers will learn how devotion to Joseph expanded in both the breadth of his intercessory powers and his geographical area of influence, galvanizing painters and sculptors to produce fascinating innovations in his iconography.

This richly illustrated book will guide readers through a spectacular gallery of images by Raphael, Michelangelo, Murillo, Giotto, Caravaggio, El Greco, and more, illustrating how each one of these creative geniuses chose to highlight the increasing number of attributes ascribed to this silent saint. Written to celebrate the Year of St Joseph declared by Pope Francis, The Silent Knight aims to deepen the faithful’s knowledge, appreciation, and devotion to this eminent Patron of the Universal Church through the extraordinary beauty that he has inspired.

Genres: Art, History, Catholic, Religion

227 pages, Paperback

Published December 14, 2021

About the author

Elizabeth Lev is an American-born art historian with the good fortune to live and work in Rome. Life in the “Eternal City” allows her the perfect environment to pursue her many passions. For on an average day, one can find Elizabeth working on her latest article or book, preparing for one of her worldwide speaking engagements, touring visitors through the treasures of Rome, or using her skills as a sommelier to find the perfect wine to pair with dinner.

Reviews

[Margaret Gipson · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a beautiful book, and a perfect one to read during Christmas! This is a fascinating look at the many ways that St. Joseph has been rendered by artists for the past 2000 years. The accompanying illustrations are gorgeous, and Lev's analysis is both lively and respectful.

[Bridget Knodel · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was good in that I learned of a lot of artwork that I might have never seen otherwise. I don’t think it was always detailed enough, not all the ideas were fully flushed out. And then the last chapter was just very uncomfortable…I don’t think going on a tirade against “outlets of visual media (who) are committed to the agenda of transgenderism, gay rights, or the slaughter of the unborn through abortion” was particularly necessary or charitable. For someone who calls “toxic masculinity” a buzzword, Lev seems to throw out quite a lot of others. Yes it’s important to promote contemporary religious art. No that doesn’t mean all secular art is bad.

[Diana Kullman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book! Her examples of St Joseph art were perfect. After reading the Consecration to St Joseph, I just wanted to learn more about this Saint. Lev's book also let me see more. It's one of my favorite St Joseph books and I've become an addict.

[Jerin Philip · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thorough, comprehensive examination at how the Church's understanding of St. Joseph -- and the ways he's interceded -- through the art movements that he has inspired over nearly 2,000 years. Fantastic color images used throughout. Deep art analysis in every chapter.

[Evelyn Hernandez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Biiig fan of Liz Lev. She should write more books like this!

[Lela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great summary of the history of St. Joseph in art.