Vlucht naar Egypte 1851 - 1899

This is a print of ‘Vlucht naar Egypte’ by Karl Rauscher. Notice how Rauscher masterfully uses contrasting shades to guide our gaze. The composition centres on the holy family, illuminated against a backdrop of darker, more turbulent tones. Angels hover above, adding a layer of divine protection to the scene. The varying tones aren't just aesthetic. They create a visual hierarchy that invites us to interpret the narrative through a play of light and shadow. This technique is reminiscent of the ‘chiaroscuro’ seen in Baroque painting, but here it serves not just to dramatize, but to highlight the vulnerability amid the flight. The family, rendered with precision, are symbols within a semiotic structure. Mary's gentle embrace is a visual signifier of care, and Joseph’s sturdy stance suggests protection. The journey is fraught, yet these formal elements suggest hope. The scene functions as a symbol of faith, and the print acts as a medium connecting viewers to the narratives that reflect their personal and communal values.