The flight into Egypt: a sketch: St Joseph

"The flight into Egypt: a sketch: St Joseph," created by Rembrandt van Rijn in 1628, is a significant early example of the artist's masterful graphic work. Executed as a print on paper, this piece captures the immediacy associated with preparatory drawings, despite being finalized as a formal impression. Dating to Rijn's early Leiden period, the work demonstrates his developing skill in capturing human figures and narrative through the reductive medium of printmaking. The choice of St. Joseph as the primary focus, rather than the more common depiction of Mary and the Christ Child, provides an intimate and unusual perspective on the weary journey described in the Gospel of Matthew.

While classified as a print, the expressive lines and rough handling reinforce the designation of "sketch," offering valuable insight into Rijn's rapid working methods. The Flight into Egypt was a recurring thematic challenge for the artist, allowing him to explore narrative drama and the effects of light and shadow, even in small-scale works on paper. This particular rendition emphasizes Joseph's protective and solitary role during the family's hurried escape from Herod’s persecution. As a piece produced during the Dutch Golden Age, it reflects the era's deep engagement with nuanced biblical narrative. This exceptional piece is now part of the extensive collection of Dutch masters housed at the Rijksmuseum. High-quality prints of this subject are often made available through public domain initiatives, allowing wider study and appreciation of Rijn’s foundational works on paper.