The Flight into Egypt

Adam Elsheimer’s religious painting The Flight into Egypt (c.1609) is a remarkable example of early Baroque art, notable for its innovative fusion of biblical narrative and natural landscape. This oil-on-copper work depicts Joseph, Mary, and Jesus seeking refuge, rendered with a groundbreaking naturalistic night sky rarely seen in Renaissance art. The detailed interplay of light and darkness heightens the emotional and spiritual atmosphere, reflecting Elsheimer’s mastery just before his death in 1610. Hanging in his Roman bedroom, this intimate cabinet painting remains one of his most lauded contributions to religious and landscape painting.