Vlucht naar Egypte 1722 - 1774

Christian Wilhelm Ernst Dietrich’s etching, "Vlucht naar Egypte" (Flight to Egypt), depicts the biblical story of the Holy Family's journey to escape King Herod's persecution. This 18th-century print captures the dramatic moment as Joseph, holding a torch, guides the donkey carrying Mary and the infant Jesus through the night. The composition creates a sense of urgency, emphasizing the perilous nature of their journey. The dark, shadowy background and the use of chiaroscuro, which emphasizes the contrast between light and dark, further enhance the sense of drama and mystery. This artwork is part of the Rijksmuseum collection and exemplifies Dietrich’s skill in etching and his fascination with biblical narratives.