The Rest on the Flight into Egypt (The Repose of the Holy Family in Egypt)

The Rest on the Flight into Egypt (The Repose of the Holy Family in Egypt) by William Blake, executed in 1806, is a significant Drawing residing within the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The work was rendered using a complex layering of Watercolor, pen and black ink, applied over an initial sketch in graphite. This layered technique allows Blake to combine delicate, luminous washes with the decisive, precise linearity typical of his draftsmanship.

Blake illustrates the traditional biblical narrative of the Holy Family resting during their escape from Herod’s decree. The figures of Joseph, Mary, and the infant Jesus are depicted nestled within a stylized, sheltering Landscape, emphasizing the theme of spiritual refuge in the wilderness. Compositionally, the Holy Family is framed by massive, dramatically rendered Trees, which contrast with the brilliant light emitted by the powerful Sun dominating the upper portion of the composition. Distinctive Animals, often symbolic in Blake’s art, reinforce the scene’s contemplative mood.

Created late in the artist's career, this 1806 drawing exemplifies Blake’s unique blend of Romantic era sensibilities and profound spiritual vision, characteristic of his mature output following the turn of the 19th century. Although Blake is often known for his complex prints and illuminated books, works like The Rest on the Flight into Egypt demonstrate his innovative handling of pure Watercolor and graphic elements. The meticulous detail achieved through the combination of ink and graphite further cements the significance of this piece as a powerful example of British visionary art. Today, high-resolution images of many of Blake's works, including this drawing, are frequently available for study through the museum’s public domain initiatives.