The flight into Egypt crossing a brook 1654

Rembrandt van Rijn's etching "The Flight into Egypt Crossing a Brook" (1654) depicts the biblical story of the Holy Family fleeing to Egypt to escape King Herod's persecution. This small print, housed in the Rijksmuseum, exemplifies Rembrandt's masterful use of light and shadow, known as chiaroscuro, which gives the scene a sense of depth and drama. The figures, shrouded in darkness, are illuminated by a shaft of light, highlighting their desperation and emphasizing the urgency of their journey. This work is a powerful testament to Rembrandt's skill as a printmaker and his ability to translate religious narrative into a compelling visual form.