Artwork
The Flight into Egypt
The Flight into Egypt is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Giuseppe Cesari. It dates from 1598 and is held in the collection of the Galleria Borghese.
About this work
Overview
The Flight into Egypt, painted in 1598 by Giuseppe Cesari (Il Giuseppino), is a religious oil painting depicting a pivotal biblical scene. Characteristic of the early Baroque period with Mannerist influences, it is part of the Galleria Borghese collection.
Subject & Meaning
The painting illustrates the Holy Family’s escape to Egypt to evade King Herod’s decree, as narrated in the Bible. The composition focuses on the Virgin Mary, baby Jesus, and Joseph, emphasizing their serene yet urgent journey.
Technique & Style
Cesari employed chiaroscuro to create depth, contrasting the Holy Family against a darker, natural backdrop of trees and a cloudy sky. Visible brushstrokes add texture, reflecting the refined yet intricate Mannerist approach.
History & Provenance
Created under papal patronage (Clement VIII and Sixtus V) in Rome, the work showcases Cesari’s contribution to the transitional period between Mannerism and the Baroque. It has been preserved in the Galleria Borghese.
Artist & collection
Artist
Giuseppe Cesari (14 February 1568 – 3 July 1640) was an Italian Mannerist painter, also named Il Giuseppino and called Cavaliere d'Arpino, because he was created Knight of the Supreme Order of Christ by his patron Pope Clement VIII.
