Artwork

The Angel Telling Joseph to Flee and the Flight into Egypt

The Angel Telling Joseph to Flee and the Flight into Egypt, by Adriaen Collaert, ink, 1585
The Angel Telling Joseph to Flee and the Flight into Egypt, by Adriaen Collaert, ink, 1585

The Angel Telling Joseph to Flee and the Flight into Egypt is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Adriaen Collaert. It dates from 1585 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Angel Telling Joseph to Flee and the Flight into Egypt is an engraving on laid paper created by Adriaen Collaert in 1585.

Subject & Meaning

The engraving depicts a biblical scene in two parts: the Holy Family's flight into Egypt on the left, and a serene village landscape on the right, with various everyday activities. The Latin text at the bottom references Joseph's dream, warning him to flee.

Technique & Style

The engraving features intricate details and sharp lines, characteristic of Collaert's skillful use of the engraving technique, which involves carving designs onto a metal plate to produce printed images.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Adriaen Collaert

Artist

Adriaen Collaert

Adriaen Collaert (1560–1618) was a Flemish artist, born in Antwerp.

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