Joseph Adoring the Christ Child near a Smoking Altar, from the Flight into Egypt 1752

Giovanni Domenico Tiepolo created this print, "Joseph Adoring the Christ Child near a Smoking Altar, from the Flight into Egypt," in the 18th century, a period marked by religious devotion and grand narratives. Tiepolo situates us within the biblical story of the Holy Family's flight to Egypt. The image, rendered in delicate lines, depicts Mary and the infant Jesus on a donkey, guided by Joseph. Angels hover, attending to their journey. But it is the figure of Joseph, kneeling in adoration before a humble altar, that commands our attention. The scene is both intimate and monumental, reflecting Tiepolo's skill in blending the human with the divine. Tiepolo’s work encourages us to think about the complex interplay between faith, family, and the search for refuge. The image suggests a narrative of hope amidst uncertainty, reflecting the universal desire for safety, belonging, and the preservation of familial bonds. The artist asks us to consider our own place within the broader human story, inviting reflection on the values we hold sacred and the empathy we extend to those in need.