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The Flight into Egypt with the Holy Family and Two Angels in a Skiff

Giustino Menescardi

1748

ink

paper

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

Baroque 18th Century Religious

Dominant colour

The Flight into Egypt with the Holy Family and Two Angels in a Skiff is a 1748 ink by Giustino Menescardi, a Baroque work, held at National Gallery of Art.

Who painted this?: Giustino Menescardi
When & what style?: 1748 · Baroque
Where can I see it?: National Gallery of Art

About this work

This sketch shows a small boat rocking on rough water, with four figures inside. Two adults and two children huddle together, gripping each other or the sides. Above them, two winged shapes float like clouds, their arms outstretched. The waves crash around the boat, and the sky is a swirl of quick, loose lines. The drawing uses only brown ink and white highlights, making it look like a quick study rather than a finished painting. The rough, uneven strokes give it a sense of movement and urgency. Next, look up Baroque to see how this style’s drama and energy compare to other works.