The Holy Family in Egypt (Nicolas Poussin): Artwork Record

The Holy Family in Egypt: catalogue record

Title: The Holy Family in Egypt
Artist: Nicolas Poussin (1594–1665)
Artist born in: Le Havre, France
Movement: Baroque Style
Period: Renaissance
Subject: holy family, egypt, religious art, classical painting, nicolas poussin, baroque composition

The Holy Family in Egypt: subject and meaning

Introduction to the Painting and its Artist

Nicolas Poussin, a French painter born in 1594, is renowned for his contributions to the Baroque style. Among his most notable works is "The Holy Family in Egypt" (1657), an oil on canvas masterpiece that exemplifies Poussin's mastery of composition and color. This painting is part of WikiOO's extensive collection, which includes various periods and styles throughout history.

Historical Context and Symbolism

Created during the Baroque period (17th century), "The Holy Family in Egypt" showcases dramatic contrasts of light and shadow, intense emotional expression, and dynamic compositions. The painting depicts the Holy Family resting during their journey to Egypt, as described in the Gospel of Matthew (2:13-23). Poussin incorporates several symbols into this work. For instance, the apple tree under which the family rests symbolizes salvation and connects Christ to Adam, while grapes are associated with the holy communion. The angel holding a crown represents divine protection and guidance for the Holy Family.

WikiOO's Reproduction

At WikiOO.org, you can purchase a high-quality handmade oil painting reproduction of "The Holy Family in Egypt". Our skilled artists meticulously recreate each detail, ensuring an authentic and visually striking piece that will become a focal point in any room.

Conclusion

Nicolas Poussin's "The Holy Family in Egypt" is a remarkable example of Baroque art, demonstrating the artist's exceptional talent for capturing emotion and symbolism. By adding this masterpiece to your collection, you not only enhance your appreciation for art history but also acquire a stunning conversation piece that will be admired by all who see it. Discover more about WikiOO's extensive collection of handmade oil paintings reproductions at The Holy Family in Egypt by Nicolas Poussin.

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holy family egypt religious art classical painting nicolas poussin baroque composition symbolism light and shadow

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By the WikiOO.org Editorial Team Updated Sept. 25, 2026

The Holy Family in Egypt: image files and credit line

The Holy Family in Egypt by Nicolas Poussin

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Public domain: the artist died in 1665.

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Credit line

Nicolas Poussin, The Holy Family in Egypt. Public domain.

Expert-prepared file

The file is prepared from a higher-resolution image in our database, not the catalogue image, and reaches at least 300 DPI. A digital expert checks the colours against the original and retouches it, faithful to the brushwork.

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Frequently asked questions: The Holy Family in Egypt

What is "The Holy Family in Egypt" about?

The themes present in "The Holy Family in Egypt" by Nicolas Poussin include holy family, egypt, religious art, classical painting, nicolas poussin, baroque composition, symbolism, light and shadow. Together they summarize the artwork's subject matter.

Can the image of "The Holy Family in Egypt" by Nicolas Poussin be freely reproduced?

Regarding copyright, "The Holy Family in Egypt" is in the public domain - its copyright has expired.

Who created "The Holy Family in Egypt"?

"The Holy Family in Egypt" was created by Nicolas Poussin. The information on this page describes Nicolas Poussin's original work.

What art movement does "The Holy Family in Egypt" by Nicolas Poussin belong to?

"The Holy Family in Egypt" by Nicolas Poussin belongs to the Baroque Style movement. This movement provides the stylistic context of the work.

Where does "The Holy Family in Egypt" fall in Nicolas Poussin's career?

"The Holy Family in Egypt" represents the Mature Period of Nicolas Poussin.

Is "The Holy Family in Egypt" by Nicolas Poussin in the public domain, and why?

"The Holy Family in Egypt" by Nicolas Poussin is in the public domain - its copyright has expired. Copyright duration runs from the artist's death, which occurred in 1665.

Where does "The Holy Family in Egypt" sit within Nicolas Poussin's body of work?

"The Holy Family in Egypt" belongs to Nicolas Poussin's Baroque Style work, whose recorded themes include classical ideals, roman tradition, christian faith, divine narrative, royal patronage, baroque grandeur, religious allegory, moral lesson.

Where does "The Holy Family in Egypt" stand among Nicolas Poussin's recurring subjects?

Among Nicolas Poussin's recorded themes - classical ideals, roman tradition, christian faith, divine narrative, royal patronage, baroque grandeur, religious allegory, moral lesson - "The Holy Family in Egypt" brings its own focus on holy family, egypt, religious art, classical painting, nicolas poussin, baroque composition, symbolism, light and shadow.

Nicolas Poussin: biography

1594–1665, France

Nicolas Poussin

Early Life, Family and Training To understand the rigid discipline of Nicolas Poussin, one must look to his origins in Les Andelys, Normandy. Born in June 1594, his early development was not a product of sudden inspiration but of structured, methodical training. He began his technical education in Rouen, a start that provided the foundational mechanics necessary for his later, more complex compositions. This early period established a pattern of rigorous preparation that would define his entire career.

Full entry: Nicolas Poussin Principal works by Nicolas Poussin