Artwork
Triptychon, rechter Flügel: Flucht nach Ägypten
Triptychon, rechter Flügel: Flucht nach Ägypten is an unspecified painting by the Mannerist artist Master of 1518. It dates from 1530 and is held in the collection of the Bavarian State Painting Collections. This panel forms the right wing of a three‑part religious triptych created circa 1530.
About this work
The Virgin is dressed in a dark robe with a white undergarment, while the infant Jesus is swaddled in white cloth.
The painting depicts the Virgin Mary holding the infant Jesus in her lap. She is seated on a rocky outcropping, surrounded by lush greenery and a distant landscape. The Virgin is dressed in a dark robe with a white undergarment, while the infant Jesus is swaddled in white cloth.
In the foreground, a small pitcher and a cloth are visible, adding to the intimate atmosphere of the scene. The artist's use of color and composition creates a sense of serenity and devotion.
For more information on the artist behind this work, look up Master of 1518.
Overview
This panel forms the right wing of a three‑part religious triptych created circa 1530. Executed by the anonymous figure known as the Master of 1518, it portrays the biblical episode of the Flight into Egypt. The work is part of the Alte Pinakothek’s collection in Munich and exemplifies the devotional imagery typical of early 16th‑century Flemish painting.
Subject & Meaning
The scene centers on the Virgin Mary cradling the infant Christ, seated on a rocky ledge amid verdant foliage. Their calm posture and the modest domestic objects—a pitcher and a cloth—underscore themes of protection and humble refuge as the Holy Family embarks on their journey to Egypt.
Technique & Style
Rendered in oil on panel, the composition balances a muted dark robe for Mary with the luminous white of the child’s swaddling. The artist employs delicate modeling and a soft, atmospheric landscape in the background, hallmarks of Antwerp Mannerist aesthetics, while the careful handling of light creates a tranquil, reverent mood.
History & Provenance
Attributed to the Master of 1518 through comparative stylistic analysis, the panel belongs to a group of unsigned works linked to this workshop. The artist’s identity remains debated, with possibilities including Jan Mertens the Younger or Jan van Dornicke. The painting entered the Alte Pinakothek’s holdings in the 19th century, where it remains on display.
Artist & collection
Artist
The Master of 1518 is a Flemish painter belonging to the stylistic school of Antwerp Mannerism.
Lamentation triptych: St. Margaret On reverse: Angel of the Annunciation
Beweinungsaltar: Hl. Katharina mit Stifterin
Mary with the child, Saint Catherine, Saint Barbara and angels
Madonna and Child with Saint Anne (Back: Remnant of a halo)
Jomfru Maria giver Kristusbarnet die
Maria mit Kind
Virgin Suckling the Child
The Nativity with the Adoration of the Shepherds
Rest in flight
The Virgin Holding The Child with both Hands
Mary enthroned with the Christ child
Mary (after The Ghent Altarpiece)