Artwork
The Flight into Egypt
The Flight into Egypt is an ink print by the Baroque artist Stefano Della Bella. It dates from 1637 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Stefano della Bella, an Italian printmaker active in the early 17th century, produced an etching titled *The Flight into Egypt* in 1637. Executed on laid paper, the work belongs to his extensive output of more than a thousand prints, which covered a wide range of subjects from military engagements to pastoral scenes.
Subject & Meaning
The image illustrates the biblical episode in which the Holy Family escapes to Egypt. A woman, identified as Mary, sits astride a donkey while cradling an infant, and a kneeling man, presumed to be Joseph, looks up toward her, suggesting concern and devotion amid their hurried departure.
Technique & Style
Della Bella employs fine, closely spaced lines to render the figures and landscape, creating a sense of movement and texture. Subtle contrasts of light and shadow give the scene depth, while the dynamic poses of the characters convey urgency and emotional tension.
History & Provenance
The print is a restrike, meaning it was produced from the original plate after the initial edition. Della Bella’s prints were widely circulated in Italy and beyond during his lifetime, though specific ownership records for this particular impression are not documented.
Context
Created during the Baroque period, the work reflects contemporary interests in narrative drama and detailed naturalism. Della Bella’s etchings often combined meticulous observation with expressive line work, aligning with the era’s emphasis on vivid storytelling in visual art.
Artist & collection
Artist
Stefano della Bella (18 May 1610 – 12 July 1664) was an Italian draughtsman and printmaker known for etchings of a great variety of subjects, including military and court scenes, landscapes, and lively genre scenes.
![The Flight into Egypt [verso], by Stefano Della Bella](https://artifactworldgallery.com/img/stefano-della-bella--the-flight-into-egypt-verso--3a100db72e6d25e3-w320.webp)
