The Rest on the Flight into Egypt by Arnold Böcklin
Description: "The Rest on the Flight into Egypt" by Arnold Böcklin is a contemplative painting that depicts the biblical scene of the Holy Family’s journey to Egypt to escape King Herod's persecution. Created in the late 19th century, the work portrays a serene moment where Mary, Joseph, and the infant Jesus pause to rest in a secluded natural setting. Mary, dressed in flowing robes, sits on a rock, tenderly holding the child, while Joseph stands nearby, offering a protective presence. The landscape around them is lush and tranquil, filled with dense foliage, rocks, and a river that meanders through the background. Böcklin's characteristic use of rich, earthy colors, such as deep greens, browns, and blues, combined with a soft, diffused light, adds a sense of peace and refuge to the composition.
Arnold Böcklin (1827–1901), a Swiss symbolist painter, is known for his imaginative and often mystical interpretations of mythological, allegorical, and biblical themes. "The Rest on the Flight into Egypt" reflects his interest in blending realism with symbolic elements, creating a scene that is both grounded in naturalistic detail and infused with spiritual significance. The painting captures the moment of rest as a symbol of divine protection and maternal care, presenting the Holy Family in harmony with the surrounding natural world. Böcklin’s attention to the landscape and his ability to convey emotion through light and composition demonstrate his mastery of the Symbolist style.
Details:
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Location and Date Created: Switzerland, late 19th century.
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Medium: Oil on canvas.
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Full Artwork Name: The Rest on the Flight into Egypt by Arnold Böcklin.
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Artwork Style: Symbolism with elements of Realism.
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Subject/Topic: A biblical scene depicting the Holy Family resting during their flight into Egypt, reflecting themes of protection, peace, and spiritual refuge.
