Rest on the Flight into Egypt 1748

Pieter van Bleeck’s “Rest on the Flight into Egypt” (1748) depicts a scene from the biblical story of the Holy Family's journey to escape Herod’s persecution. The artwork is a Baroque-style etching, showcasing a strong use of light and shadow to depict the figures, especially the sleeping baby Jesus. The composition of the artwork is classic for the genre, as the Virgin Mary cradles the Christ child while Joseph rests his head in his hand behind them, illustrating the family's fatigue after their escape. The scene is set in a lush, outdoor landscape, with the Holy Family resting under the shade of a tree. The work's realistic depiction of the figures and the natural landscape is typical of van Bleeck's style.