About this artwork

The Holy Family rests during the Flight into Egypt, while angels provide refreshing fruit and spring water. The Christ Child blesses the infant Saint John the Baptist, whose reed cross is echoed by the wooden cross appearing in the miraculous vision above. Putti emerge from an opening in the clouds above the mountainous landscape, holding the instruments of Christ’s Passion: the cross and nails, and the column on which he is scourged. The smooth copper sheet on which this work is painted provided an ideal surface for Calvaert’s fluid style, enhancing the glowing colours and jewel-like finish.

Updated before 2020

Does this text contain inaccurate information or language that you feel we should improve or change? Tell us what you think.

Denys Calvaert

Denys Calvaert