Who painted The Flight into Egypt?

The Flight into Egypt was painted by Gregorio Pagani in 1590.

Where can I see The Flight into Egypt?

The Flight into Egypt is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is The Flight into Egypt?

The Flight into Egypt is associated with Renaissance.

Artwork

The Flight into Egypt

Gregorio Pagani , 1590

The Flight into Egypt is a drawing by the Renaissance artist Gregorio Pagani. It dates from 1590 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Gregorio Pagani’s drawing titled *The Flight into Egypt* depicts the Holy Family’s escape from Bethlehem to Egypt, a narrative drawn from Matthew 2:13‑23. Executed in a highly finished style, the work presents Joseph leading with a staff, Mary and the infant Jesus riding a donkey, and a group of angels hovering above, one gesturing forward.

Subject & Meaning

The composition follows the biblical account of Joseph’s urgent departure after learning of King Herod’s decree. The presence of the guiding angels underscores the divine protection afforded to the family during their perilous journey, emphasizing themes of obedience, refuge, and providential care.

Technique & Style

Rendered as a meticulous drawing, Pagani employs fine line work and careful shading to achieve a polished, almost painterly effect. The crisp rendering of figures and the delicate rendering of the angels’ wings reflect the artist’s reputation for highly finished, fully realized draughtsmanship.

History & Provenance

Commissioned by the Medici family for decorative projects, the drawing is one of the few surviving works by Pagani, whose altarpieces for churches and convents have largely been lost. The piece remains in excellent condition and is currently part of the collection at the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Context

Pagani worked in late‑Mannerist Florence, where the Medici patronage encouraged elaborate religious imagery for public and private celebrations. This drawing illustrates the period’s emphasis on narrative clarity and devotional intensity, aligning with contemporary expectations for ecclesiastical art.