Who painted Flight to Egypt?

Flight to Egypt was painted by Albrecht Dürer in 1498.

Where can I see Flight to Egypt?

Flight to Egypt is held by Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden.

What movement is Flight to Egypt?

Flight to Egypt is associated with Northern Renaissance.

Can I buy a print of Flight to Egypt?

Museum-quality prints of Flight to Egypt are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Flight to Egypt

Albrecht Dürer , 1498

Flight to Egypt is an oil painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Albrecht Dürer. It dates from 1498 and is held in the collection of the Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden.

About this work

Overview

The composition places the Virgin Mary and infant Jesus on a donkey, with Joseph walking beside them, set within a gently rolling landscape of trees and rocks.

Albrecht Dürer’s 1498 oil painting Flight to Egypt shows the Holy Family on their journey to safety. The composition places the Virgin Mary and infant Jesus on a donkey, with Joseph walking beside them, set within a gently rolling landscape of trees and rocks. The work exemplifies the Northern Renaissance’s attention to natural detail and balanced arrangement, and it is currently housed in the Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister.

Subject & Meaning

The scene illustrates the biblical episode in which Mary, Joseph, and the infant Jesus flee to Egypt to escape King Herod’s decree. Dürer emphasizes the modesty and devotion of the family, portraying them in a calm, contemplative moment rather than a dramatic escape, thereby underscoring themes of protection, faith, and divine providence.

Technique & Style

Executed in oil, the painting displays Dürer’s skillful use of chiaroscuro to model forms and create spatial depth. Subtle gradations of light and shadow give the figures a three‑dimensional presence, while the detailed rendering of foliage and rock formations reflects the Northern Renaissance’s commitment to realism and observation.

History & Provenance

Created in Dürer’s mature period, the work follows his earlier success with woodcuts and engravings and marks his increasing engagement with oil painting. After remaining in private hands for several centuries, the painting entered the collection of the Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister in Dresden, where it remains on display.

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Artist & collection

Artist

Albrecht Dürer

Albrecht Dürer spent his life in Nuremberg, a busy German city where artists traded prints like currency.

Museum

Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden

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