Who painted The Flight into Egypt?

The Flight into Egypt was painted by Albrecht Altdorfer in 1513.

Where can I see The Flight into Egypt?

The Flight into Egypt is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is The Flight into Egypt?

The Flight into Egypt is associated with Renaissance.

Artwork

The Flight into Egypt

Albrecht Altdorfer , 1513

The Flight into Egypt is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Albrecht Altdorfer. It dates from 1513 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Flight into Egypt is a woodcut on laid paper created by Albrecht Altdorfer around 1513. As a prominent figure of the Danube School, Altdorfer's work often merged biblical scenes with vibrant, expressive landscapes, foreshadowing his later emphasis on landscape as a standalone subject.

Subject & Meaning

Depicting a chaotic escape from a burning city, the print illustrates the biblical narrative of the Flight into Egypt. Amidst the crowded, dynamic scene, Mary, Joseph, and the infant Jesus are integrated within the fleeing populace, set against a backdrop of turmoil and a burning castle.

Technique & Style

Executed as a woodcut, the piece showcases Altdorfer's printmaking prowess, characterized by densely packed, intricate details. Every element, from facial expressions to architectural elements, is meticulously etched into the wood block, demonstrating a level of craftsmanship akin to the Nuremberg Little Masters.

History & Provenance

Created circa 1513, The Flight into Egypt marks an early example of Altdorfer's fascination with landscape. While specific ownership history is not provided, the work is attributed to Altdorfer's activity in Regensburg during the German Renaissance.

Context

This woodcut reflects the artistic innovations of the Danube School and the broader German Renaissance. Altdorfer's approach to landscape and detail aligns with the era's emphasis on expressive and intricate artwork.

Legacy

The Flight into Egypt contributes to Altdorfer's reputation as a versatile artist, influencing later generations with his unique blend of biblical narrative and landscape emphasis. The piece remains a testament to the technical and artistic achievements of early 16th-century printmaking.

Artist & collection

Artist

Albrecht Altdorfer

Albrecht Altdorfer (c. 1480 – 12 February 1538) was a German painter, engraver and architect of the Renaissance working in Regensburg. Along with Lucas Cranach the Elder and Wolf Huber he is regarded to be the main…