Cardinal Erard de la Marck was one of the most powerful men in the Low Countries. He was the confidant of Charles V and of Margaret of Austria, who was governor of the Netherlands. His portrait and the accompanying painting of The Holy Family deviate from the traditions of the time. The cardinal is not depicted in devout prayer, but gesturing with his hands as though speaking. Even more exceptional is the fact that he, and not the Holy Family, occupy the heraldically most important position on the left side.