Artwork

The Repose in Egypt

The Repose in Egypt, by Albrecht Dürer, 1502
The Repose in Egypt, by Albrecht Dürer, 1502

The Repose in Egypt is a print by the Renaissance artist Albrecht Dürer. It dates from 1502 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Repose in Egypt is a woodcut from a series of eight (1959.99.8-15) depicting key events in the early life of Jesus, from the Annunciation to the Holy Family's time in Egypt.

Subject & Meaning

This specific woodcut captures a serene moment of daily life for the Holy Family during their exile in Egypt, with Joseph working as a carpenter and Mary spinning wool, surrounded by divine presence.

Technique & Style

Executed in woodcut, a technique popularized by artists like Albrecht Dürer, the piece features detailed, everyday scenes that personalize the biblical narrative, characteristic of a style emphasizing relatability and intimacy.

History & Provenance

Part of a set dated to the woodcuts' production (though exact date beyond 'part of series' not specified in source), the work is now housed as part of a collection (1959.99.8-15).

Context

The inclusion of angels, putti, God the Father, and the Holy Spirit (as a dove) contextualizes the mundane scene within a broader, sacred narrative, blending the earthly with the divine.

Legacy

While the specific legacy of this woodcut is not detailed, its style and attention to everyday life reflect influences that may have contributed to later artistic interpretations of biblical themes.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Albrecht Dürer

Artist

Albrecht Dürer

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

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.