Artwork
The Donkey Led to the River
The Donkey Led to the River is a print by the Baroque artist Herman van Swanevelt. It dates from 1653 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
About this work
Overview
The Donkey Led to the River is a print by Herman Swanevelt, part of a four-scene series illustrating the Flight into Egypt.
Subject & Meaning
The scene depicts Joseph leading a donkey to a river, while Mary tends to the Christ child in the background, representing a moment from the biblical narrative of the Holy Family's escape to Egypt.
Technique & Style
Swanevelt's work is characterized by a warm, luminous depiction of light, a trait evident in both his paintings and etchings, and reflective of his expertise in conveying sunlight.
History & Provenance
Swanevelt, a Dutch artist, spent much of his career in Paris and Rome, influencing his landscape style, which in this series, draws on Italianate scenery rather than accurately representing Egypt.
Context
The series is notable for its focus on landscape, a genre that gained immense popularity in the 17th century, with each scene prioritizing scenery over narrative.
Artist & collection
