Who painted The Flight into Egypt?

The Flight into Egypt was painted by Albrecht Dürer in 1504.

Where can I see The Flight into Egypt?

The Flight into Egypt is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is The Flight into Egypt?

The Flight into Egypt is associated with Renaissance.

Artwork

The Flight into Egypt

Albrecht Dürer , 1504

The Flight into Egypt is a print by the Renaissance artist Albrecht Dürer. It dates from 1504 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Flight into Egypt is a woodcut by Albrecht Dürer, depicting a pivotal moment in the biblical narrative where Mary, Joseph, and the infant Jesus flee to Egypt after a warning dream. The composition features the Holy Family navigating a dense, ominous forest on a donkey, accompanied by an ox.

Subject & Meaning

The scene illustrates the biblical event where the Holy Family escapes to Egypt to save Jesus from danger, as prompted by Joseph's dream. The threatening forest surroundings contrast with the serene, protected figures of Mary (holding Jesus) and Joseph, leading the way.

Technique & Style

Executed as a woodcut, Dürer's piece showcases exceptionally fine lines, evoking the wood grain. The forest is densely populated with intricate details such as gnarled roots and fluttering leaves, enhancing the sense of the Holy Family's immersion in a wild, natural environment. The use of chiaroscuro creates a dramatic interplay of light and shadow.

History & Provenance

No specific historical ownership or exhibition details are provided for this particular work, though it is noted for its comparison to another contemporary piece, 'Mary and Joseph Travel to Bethlehem' (CMA 2005.145.24.b), highlighting similarities in composition, including the presence of an ox.

Context

Dürer's invention of a Middle Eastern landscape is notable, distinguished by the inclusion of a palm tree and other exotic vegetation, differing from a contemporaneous Indian artist's depiction of the scene with a camel as the 'pack beast'. This highlights Dürer's creative interpretation of biblical settings.