The Rest on the Flight into Egypt c. 1720

Carlo Antonio Tavella created this brown ink drawing titled ‘The Rest on the Flight into Egypt.’ Born in Milan, Tavella spent much of his career in Genoa, an important port city with a long history of global exchange. Here, the holy family is depicted finding solace in an idyllic landscape. Light breaks through the trees, illuminating Mary, Joseph, and the infant Jesus, who are rendered with a gentle humanity. Look at the way Mary sits protectively, embodying both strength and vulnerability. This interpretation departs from the more formal, hierarchical depictions of the Holy Family common at the time. The intimacy that Tavella captures allows us to consider the family’s experience as refugees seeking asylum. Tavella’s work evokes a sense of shared human experience. The drawing reminds us of the universal need for rest, safety, and community, regardless of background or belief. It invites us to reflect on the personal and collective dimensions of displacement and belonging.