Artwork

The Flight into Egypt

The Flight into Egypt, by Albrecht Altdorfer, ink, 1513
The Flight into Egypt, by Albrecht Altdorfer, ink, 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 was known for emphasizing expressive landscapes in biblical scenes.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a group, likely a family, navigating rugged terrain, evoking the biblical narrative of the Flight into Egypt. The chaotic landscape and tense figures suggest a sense of urgency and struggle.

Technique & Style

Executed as a woodcut, the piece showcases sharp lines and dramatic contrasts, characteristic of the medium. Altdorfer's use of jagged rocks, dense trees, and dynamic clouds creates a sense of movement and drama.

History & Provenance

Altdorfer, associated with the Danube School and the Nuremberg Little Masters, was a pioneer in treating landscape as an independent subject. This work reflects his innovative approach to landscape in religious themes.

Context

Created in the early 16th century, The Flight into Egypt represents the Danube School's emphasis on expressive landscapes in religious art, distinguishing it from other Renaissance styles.

Legacy

This woodcut contributes to Altdorfer's legacy as an innovator in landscape depiction and woodcut technique, influencing subsequent generations of artists in their approach to biblical storytelling.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Albrecht Altdorfer

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…

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