Artwork

Rest on the Flight into Egypt

Rest on the Flight into Egypt, by Jan Brueghel, the elder, oil, 1598
Rest on the Flight into Egypt, by Jan Brueghel, the elder, oil, 1598

Rest on the Flight into Egypt is an oil painting by the Flemish Baroque painting artist Jan Brueghel, the elder. It dates from 1598 and is held in the collection of the Mauritshuis.

About this work

Overview

Rest on the Flight into Egypt, painted by Jan Brueghel the Elder in 1598 on copper, exemplifies the Flemish Baroque style. A member of the renowned Brueghel family, Jan distinguished himself through his versatility in genres.

Subject & Meaning

The painting illustrates a biblical episode where the Holy Family rests during their escape to Egypt. The serene depiction emphasizes tranquility and divine presence.

Technique & Style

Brueghel employed warm colors and soft lighting on the copper surface to create a peaceful atmosphere. The composition balances foreground figures with a lush, idyllic background.

History & Provenance

While specific ownership history is not detailed here, the work is characteristic of Jan Brueghel's collaborations within the Flemish Baroque, notably with Peter Paul Rubens.

Context

Produced in 1598, the painting reflects the Flemish Baroque's emphasis on emotional depth and detailed landscapes, influenced by the artist's family legacy and contemporary collaborations.

Legacy

Rest on the Flight into Egypt contributes to Jan Brueghel the Elder's reputation for nuanced religious and landscape painting, embodying the Flemish Baroque's aesthetic values.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Jan Brueghel, the elder

Artist

Jan Brueghel, the elder

Jan Brueghel the Elder ( BROY-gəl, US also BROO-gəl; Dutch: ; 1568 – 13 January 1625) was a Flemish painter and draughtsman.

Mauritshuis

Museum

Mauritshuis

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Mauritshuis open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.