The Flight into Egypt, on a Plate by Segers

The print The Flight into Egypt, on a Plate by Segers was created by Rembrandt van Rijn in 1653. This exquisite impression, classified as a print, is notable for being executed on handmade Japanese paper, a material Rijn frequently utilized for its distinctive tone and ability to hold fine detail.

The work demonstrates Rijn’s experimental approach to printmaking, which often involved reworking existing matrices. The plate used for this composition was originally created by the pioneering Dutch landscape artist Hercules Segers. Rijn acquired several of Segers' plates after the artist's death, adapting and altering them to fit his own narrative and expressive goals. This practice underscores Rijn’s high regard for Segers, whose innovative methods deeply influenced the Dutch master.

In depicting the biblical scene of the Holy Family fleeing Herod’s decree, Rijn utilizes deep shadows and delicate line work to create a powerful nocturnal atmosphere. The figures of Mary, Joseph, and the Christ Child are rendered small within a vast, shadowy landscape, emphasizing their vulnerability and arduous journey. This subtle focus on human drama within a daunting environment is characteristic of Rijn’s later style.

This significant example of 17th-century Dutch prints is an essential piece for understanding the artistic dialogue between two major figures of the Golden Age. The work resides in the permanent collection of the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam. As a historical masterwork, high-resolution reproductions of this art are often categorized within the public domain, enabling broad access for scholarly study and appreciation.