De vlucht naar Egypte c. 1659 - 1660

Moses ter Borch created this small drawing, "The Flight into Egypt," using pen, brush, and gray ink, imbuing the image with a sense of immediacy. The stark contrast achieved through the use of gray ink lends a dramatic quality to the scene, emphasizing the urgency of the Holy Family's journey. Ter Borch's expressive strokes detail the figures’ clothing and facial expressions, capturing a sense of vulnerability. He deftly renders the texture of the donkey’s fur and the rough terrain, highlighting the physical demands of the journey. The social context of this piece is rooted in the religious narrative of seeking refuge from persecution. Ter Borch transforms a traditional religious scene into an intimate study of human experience. The apparent simplicity of the materials belies the skill required to create such a detailed and emotionally resonant work. It is a reminder that artistic expression can be found in the humblest of media, and that the value of art lies not only in the materials used but also in the artist's ability to convey meaning and emotion.