Rest on the Flight into Egypt (recto); Madonna of the Rosary (verso) by Federico Barocci

Rest on the Flight into Egypt (recto); Madonna of the Rosary (verso)

n.d.

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Artwork details

Medium
drawing, painting, print, oil-paint, paper, ink
Dimensions
322 × 236 mm
Location
The Art Institute of Chicago
Copyright
Public Domain

Tags

#portrait#drawing#painting#print#oil-paint#figuration#paper#oil painting#ink#history-painting#italian-renaissance

About this artwork

Federico Barocci created this oil on paper artwork, "Rest on the Flight into Egypt", sometime between 1535 and 1612. It depicts a tender moment of respite during the Holy Family's journey to escape Herod's infanticide. Barocci lived during a time of great religious and political upheaval. The Council of Trent, which concluded in 1563, had a profound influence on art. The Catholic Church sought to use art as a means of communicating religious doctrine and inspiring piety. Within this context, Barocci’s intensely human portrayal of Mary offers a new narrative. Here, Mary isn't just a symbol; she is a mother, exhausted and seeking rest. Note the intimate interaction between mother and child. The vulnerability of the figures invites empathy and encourages viewers to connect with the Holy Family on a personal level. Barocci’s "Rest on the Flight into Egypt" beautifully encapsulates the intersection of faith, family, and the shared human experience of seeking solace in times of adversity.

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