Flight of the Holy Family into Egypt 1647

Jacob Jordaens, painted this scene of 'The Flight of the Holy Family into Egypt' with oil on canvas. In the 17th-century, painters like Jordaens grounded biblical stories in everyday life. Here, we see the Holy Family depicted as ordinary people undertaking a difficult journey. Look closely, and you will notice the contrast between the divine figures and the more earthly, material aspects of the painting. Consider how the artist carefully layered paint to create the textures of clothing, skin, and landscape. Think of the work involved in producing this artwork. From grinding pigments to stretching the canvas, each step relied on skilled labor and the availability of raw materials. This intersection of artistic skill and material production highlights the ways in which art is always connected to the wider world of labor, economics, and society.