Flight into Egypt
Unidentified artist
Mexico, last quarter of the 17th century
Oil and mother-of-pearl on wooden panel
Mexico, last quarter of the 17th century
Oil and mother-of-pearl on wooden panel
45×65 cm (framed)
30.5×37.5 cm (unframed)
30.5×37.5 cm (unframed)
This enconchado painting of the Flight into Egypt exemplifies a unique artistic blend, combining oil and tempera with a maque lacquerware process that incorporates mother-of-pearl, giving the piece a distinctive, luminous quality. The rectangular panel depicts the Holy Family's escape to Egypt with dramatic contrasts between the serene background and the vibrant figures.
Mary, riding a donkey, holds the Infant Jesus in a richly adorned robe enhanced by the pearlescent effect. Joseph, guiding the donkey, shows a protective demeanor, and the tranquil landscape adds a divine aura to the scene. The frame, adorned with flowers, birds, and volutes, echoes similar works, indicating a possible series of related paintings.
The depiction draws from apocryphal gospels and reflects both European Baroque influences and New Spanish artistic innovation. The use of mother-of-pearl connects New Spanish painters with Oriental techniques, illustrating a rich cross-cultural exchange facilitated by the Manila Galleon trade. This fusion of styles highlights the dynamic interplay between local artistry and global influences during the early 17th century.