Artwork
The Rest on the Flight into Egypt
The Rest on the Flight into Egypt is a chalk drawing by the Baroque artist Guercino. It dates from 1626 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
The Rest on the Flight into Egypt is a drawing created by Guercino around 1626. It is executed in pen and brown ink with brown wash on laid paper, squared with black chalk.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing depicts a scene from the biblical narrative where the Virgin Mary and the Christ child rest during their flight to Egypt, accompanied by another figure, possibly Saint Joseph or an angel.
Technique & Style
Guercino's draftsmanship is characterized by lively and expressive handling. The drawing features loose, sketchy lines and uneven strokes, conveying a sense of movement and emotion. The use of brown ink and wash creates a warm, luminous effect.
Context
Guercino was an Italian Baroque artist known for his naturalistic style, particularly in his early work. The drawing reflects the Baroque emphasis on dramatic and emotionally charged scenes.
Artist & collection
Artist
Giovanni Francesco Barbieri (8 February 1591 – 22 December 1666), better known as (il) Guercino (Italian pronunciation: ), was an Italian Baroque painter and draftsman from Cento in the Emilia region, who was active in Rome and Bologna.
The Rest on the Flight into Egypt
The Rest on the Flight into Egypt
The Rest on the Flight into Egypt
The Rest on the Flight into Egypt
The Rest on the Flight into Egypt
The Rest on the Flight into Egypt
Rest on the Flight into Egypt
The Rest on the Flight into Egypt
Rest on the Flight into Egypt
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