Rest on the Flight into Egypt 1642 - 1657

Bartolomeo Biscaino created this etching, “Rest on the Flight into Egypt,” sometime during his short life in 17th century Genoa. During this time, the Catholic Church sought to reaffirm its spiritual authority. Religious art served as a crucial tool, often depicting biblical narratives to inspire devotion. Here, we see the Virgin Mary, Joseph, and the infant Jesus during their flight to Egypt, escaping King Herod’s decree to kill all male children. Biscaino emphasizes the humanity of this divine family. Mary’s gaze upwards suggests a reliance on faith, yet her embrace of Jesus is tender, reflecting the universal bond between mother and child. The presence of an angel overhead underscores the family's divine protection and emphasizes their vulnerability as refugees seeking asylum. Biscaino’s “Rest on the Flight into Egypt” invites us to reflect on themes of faith, family, and the search for safety amidst political turmoil. It also challenges us to consider the narratives we tell about those seeking refuge, and how these stories shape our understanding of compassion and responsibility.