The Return of the Holy Family from Egypt

Nicolás Enríquez

Created:
Movement:
1773
Neoclassicism
key Notes:
Colonial Baroque, Religious Narrative
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Dimensions:
22 1/4 × 16 1/2 in. (56.5 × 41.9 cm) Framed: 25 in. × 19 1/2 in. × 1 1/2 in. (63.5 × 49.5 × 3.8 cm)
medium:
Oil on copper
Difficulty:
Expert
New game
story of the work:

"The Return of the Holy Family from Egypt" is a painting by Nicolás Enríquez, created in 1773. Enríquez was a prominent Mexican painter known for his religious works and contributions to the Baroque style in New Spain. The painting depicts the Holy Family's return to Nazareth after their flight into Egypt, a narrative derived from the Gospel of Matthew. The composition is characterized by its dramatic use of light and shadow, typical of the Baroque period. Enríquez's work often reflects a blend of European artistic influences and local traditions. The painting is notable for its emotional depth and attention to detail in the figures' expressions and clothing. The current location of the painting is not specified in available records. Further details about the painting's provenance or exhibition history are also unknown.

Description of the work:

"The Return of the Holy Family from Egypt" by Nicolás Enríquez, created in 1773, is an oil painting on copper that depicts the Holy Family's journey back to Israel after their exile in Egypt. The composition features the Virgin Mary, Joseph, and the infant Jesus, rendered with a focus on their expressions and gestures, conveying a sense of tenderness and protection. The figures are set against a landscape that includes rolling hills and a distant city, suggesting a narrative of return and hope. Enríquez employs a rich color palette, with warm earth tones contrasting with cooler blues and greens, enhancing the emotional depth of the scene. The use of light and shadow creates a three-dimensional effect, drawing attention to the figures while providing a sense of depth to the background. The meticulous detail in the clothing and facial features reflects the artist's skill in capturing the human experience within a religious context. The overall composition is harmonious, with a balanced arrangement that guides the viewer's eye through the narrative.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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The Return of the Holy Family from Egypt