Ruhe in Egypt c. 19th century

Curator: This is Ferdinand Ruscheweyh's "Ruhe in Egypt," housed here at the Harvard Art Museums. It depicts the Flight into Egypt. Editor: It's surprisingly serene. The figures are draped so classically, almost like sculptures. Curator: Yes, the composition and the subject matter draw from a long tradition of Christian iconography. The Holy Family's flight was a common theme, often used to explore ideas of refuge and divine protection. Editor: The tree under which Mary rests feels significant, doesn't it? A place of shelter, but also maybe alluding to the Tree of Life and the promise of salvation. Curator: It certainly reinforces the image’s symbolism, connecting the immediate narrative to broader religious concepts. It must have carried powerful associations within its socio-religious context. Editor: It still does, actually. I am left with a feeling of quiet hope. Curator: Exactly. Ruscheweyh created not just an image, but a symbol of enduring faith.