Artwork

Landscape with the Rest on the Flight into Egypt

Landscape with the Rest on the Flight into Egypt, by Sebastiano de Valentinis, ink, 1544
Landscape with the Rest on the Flight into Egypt, by Sebastiano de Valentinis, ink, 1544

Landscape with the Rest on the Flight into Egypt is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Sebastiano de Valentinis. It dates from 1544 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Sebastiano de Valentinis's 1544 etching, Landscape with the Rest on the Flight into Egypt, presents a tranquil scene from the Holy Family's journey to Egypt.

Subject & Meaning

The etching captures a moment of rest for Mary, Joseph, and the infant Jesus, emphasizing serenity and intimacy amidst their flight. Mary cradles Jesus under a tree, while Joseph ponders nearby, and a cow grazes in the distance, underscoring the peaceful nature of the halt.

Technique & Style

Executed in etching, the work leverages the medium's capabilities to achieve textured depth. Delicate lines and nuanced shading contribute to the scene's warmth and intimacy, characteristic of Renaissance printmaking's expressive potential.

History & Provenance

Created in 1544, specific provenance details for this etching are not provided in the available information.

Context

This work reflects the Renaissance interest in biblical narratives and the development of etching as a medium for disseminating religious themes with emotional depth.

Legacy

While its broader impact is not detailed here, the etching contributes to the body of Renaissance art exploring the Flight into Egypt, a popular subject during the period.

Artist & collection

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