The artwork “Landscape with Rest in Flight to Egypt” is a religious painting created by Claude Lorrain in 1666. Executed in oil on canvas and measuring 157 x 113 cm, it is a distinguished piece within the Classicism art movement. This esteemed artwork is housed in the Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg, Russia.
In “Landscape with Rest in Flight to Egypt,” Claude Lorrain masterfully illustrates a serene and picturesque scene deeply rooted in religious tradition. The tranquil composition features a vast and expansive landscape bathed in soft, natural light. Dominating the scene are towering trees and age-old ruins, evoking a sense of timelessness. In the foreground, the Holy Family is depicted resting during their flight to Egypt, accompanied by an angel, emphasizing the painting’s religious subject matter. The tranquil river, distant mountains, and pastoral elements, including grazing animals and a bridge spanning the water, seamlessly combine to create an idyllic and harmonious tableau. Lorrain’s expert use of light and shadow, along with his attention to detail in natural elements, exemplify the characteristic elegance and ideal beauty of Classicism.