Rest on the Flight into Egypt 1633 - 1679

“Rest on the Flight into Egypt” is an anonymous print of unknown date. The image depicts Mary, Joseph, the infant Jesus, and a small band of angels finding respite during their flight from Herod’s persecution. At first glance this may seem like a simple religious scene, but let’s consider the context of displacement and refuge. The Holy Family are refugees escaping violence, seeking asylum in a foreign land. Their vulnerability is palpable. The landscape, a dense forest, is both protective and isolating. It is a place to hide, but also a wilderness that separates them from community and support. There’s something deeply human in this depiction. The emotional weight of displacement, the universal need for safety and peace, transcends religious doctrine. In their escape, the Holy Family embodies the experience of countless individuals who have been forced to flee their homes because of war, persecution, or environmental disaster. The image invites us to reflect on our shared humanity and the importance of offering sanctuary to those in need.