Flight into Egypt

Henry Ossawa Tanner’s Flight into Egypt exemplifies his mastery of Religious painting while embodying elements of Realism. An American artist who made his career in France, Tanner moved to Paris in 1891 to attend the Académie Julian and quickly gained international acclaim, becoming the first African-American painter to do so. His works often depict biblical themes with poignant realism, and in this piece, he captures the Holy Family’s journey with calm dignity and emotional depth. Recognized in France, Tanner was named chevalier of the Legion of Honor in 1923, cementing his influence.