Select the image to view it in full. · © Sonhee Lim
Sonhee Lim · Sacred art
St. Joseph
The strength of quiet trust
With closed eyes and a hand over his heart, Joseph listens. His strength is expressed in trust, humility, and the willingness to accept God’s will.
Within the painting
Light in uncertainty
Soft light upon Joseph evokes the visit of an angel. The misty grey background suggests the uncertainty and difficulties he faced.
The lily and carpenter’s square
The lily represents purity and chastity. The square recalls his work as a carpenter and his righteousness.
Purple and gold
The colours evoke royalty and Joseph’s descent from King David. His bowed head and hand over his heart express humility.
A living presence
His elbow and garment extend beyond the canvas, suggesting that Joseph comes toward us in our own lives, with enduring care and love.
An invitation to reflect
Joseph’s quiet obedience reveals a strength grounded in love. Sonhee portrays him as a devoted husband and faithful provider, attentive to God in the midst of an uncertain future.
The artist modelled Joseph’s face on the image of Jesus in Carl Heinrich Bloch’s painting of Gethsemane, reflecting their shared obedience to God.