Return of the Holy Family from Egypt 1616

Jacob Jordaens painted the ‘Return of the Holy Family from Egypt’ with oil on canvas. Notice the dog at the bottom left; it’s a symbol of loyalty and vigilance, a motif that stretches back to ancient times. Dogs are depicted guarding homes and accompanying gods and goddesses in Greek and Roman art. But here, the dog's presence transcends mere symbolism; it evokes a sense of domesticity and protection, grounding the sacred figures in a relatable, human context. Consider the red cloak draped over Mary and Joseph; it has been a symbol of royalty and divinity since antiquity. Think of the Roman emperors swathed in purple, or the Virgin Mary cloaked in blue, another symbol of royalty in countless Renaissance paintings. In Jordaens’ painting, this red cloak invokes a sense of divine protection, enveloping the Holy Family as they navigate their journey. This symbol transcends cultural boundaries, expressing deep-seated emotions of reverence across generations.