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Student Artwork Guide

The Flight into Egypt

Bartolomé Esteban Murillo, 1670

Name Class Date
Bartolomé Esteban Murillo, The Flight into Egypt (1670), Szépművészeti Múzeum. Public domain. See this canvas under a moving light: the drawing, the true colour under the varnish, the bare pigment

The facts

Artist
Bartolomé Esteban Murillo originaluniqueart.com/en/artists/bartolome-esteban-murillo/
Artist’s dates
1618 – 1682
Painted
1670
Medium
Acrylic On Canvas
Original size
155 x 125 cm
Movement
Baroque Painting Dramatic, theatrical pictures using deep shadow and strong diagonals to pull you into the action.
Held at
Szépművészeti Múzeum originaluniqueart.com/en/museums/szepmuveszeti-muzeum-budapest/
Influences
Spanish Baroque
Notable elements
Religious scene, angels
Style
Idealized realism
Subject
Flight into Egypt

Copyright This work is in the public domain. Bartolomé Esteban Murillo died in 1682; copyright lasts 70 years after the artist’s death, so it ended in 1752.

Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Sept. 26, 2026

The Flight into Egypt — Bartolomé Esteban Murillo Part 1 · The artwork

In context

The Flight into Egypt — Bartolomé Esteban Murillo

How big is it?

The original measures 155 × 125 cm (height × width), drawn here beside an adult of average height.

When was this painted?

  1. 1610
  2. 1620
  3. 1630
  4. 1640
  5. 1650
  6. 1660
  7. 1670
  8. 1680

Row above: the years. Row below: how old the artist was at the start and at the end of each span — 0 at birth, 64 at death.

Painted when the artist was 52. The artist lived to 64. 87 of the 133 dated works by this artist in our catalogue came earlier.

Shaded: the lifetime of Bartolomé Esteban Murillo (1618–1682) ▲ this work, 1670 every dated painting, decade by decade

First works: up to 1655 Main working years: 1655–1670 Late works: from 1670

Those three bands split the works this catalogue has a date for into a first quarter, a middle half and a last quarter. They are not the artist’s complete output: a thin stretch may be a gap in the record rather than a quiet spell. The same years with the artist’s life laid along them

Compare with

Pick one work above: name two things it shares with this one, and one thing that's different.

More works to set beside this one: originaluniqueart.com/en/art/similar/bartolome-esteban-murillo-the-flight-into-egypt-D3ZBUF-en/

Colours

Measured from the image

    Main colour

    Phthalo Green #191812

    Catalogued palette

    • #191812
    • #5C5541
    • #9C9276
    • #313025

    These colours inside the artist’s whole palette Find other paintings by colour

    Main colour name
    Phthalo Green
    Intensity
    Monochromatic How saturated and varied the colours are, from a single toned-down hue to many bright ones.
    Contrast
    Serene How much the colours differ in lightness and saturation across the picture.
    Harmony
    Strong Color Unity How well the colours work together, from clashing to fully unified.
    Brightness
    Deep_shadow How light or dark the picture reads overall, from deep shadow to bright highlight.
    Saturation
    Muted How pure and strong the colours are, from near-grey to fully vivid.

    Where in the world is this painting looked at?

    • under 1%
    • 1–3%
    • 3–8%
    • 8–20%
    • 20% and over
    This painting alone has too few recorded visitors to map, so the plate reads every work by Bartolomé Esteban Murillo over the last twelve months — 28 countries in all. Where these figures come from

    The ten leading countries

    1. 1 China 54.8%
    2. 2 United States of America 9.6%
    3. 3 Spain 7.1%
    4. 4 Romania 6.0%
    5. 5 Hong Kong 3.6%
    6. 6 Singapore 2.8%
    7. 7 Brazil 1.8%
    8. 8 Mexico 1.8%
    9. 9 Germany 1.4%
    10. 10 France 1.4%
    11. · 18 other countries 9.7%

    Find the three darkest countries on the map. Is the museum that keeps this painting in any of them? Write down one reason people far away might look at it.

    The 20 most looked-at works by Bartolomé Esteban Murillo

    1. 1 Immaculate Conception of Soult, 1678 5.5%
    2. 2 the immaculate conception 5.5%
    3. 3 The Assumption of the Virgin, 1670 3.0%
    4. 4 Return of the Prodigal Son, 1670 1.8%
    5. 5 The Virgin and Child with St. Rosalina, 1670 1.8%
    6. 6 Baptism of Christ, 1665 1.8%
    7. 7 Mary and Child with Angels Playing Music, 1675 1.8%
    8. 8 St. Augustine with the Virgin and Child 1.8%
    9. 9 Two Women at a Window, 1660 1.5%
    10. 10 Four Figures on a Step, 1655 1.5%
    11. 11 The Immaculate Conception of the Virgin 1.5%
    12. 12 Immaculate Conception, 1680 1.2%
    13. 13 Virgin and Child in Glory, 1673 1.2%
    14. 14 Liberation of St. Peter, 1667 1.2%
    15. 15 The Annunciation, 1680 1.2%
    16. 16 St. John the Baptist as a Child, 1665 1.2%
    17. 17 San Diego de Alcala de Henares en extase devant la croix 1.2%
    18. 18 The Immaculate Conception (oil on canvas) 1.2%
    19. 19 The Young Beggar, 1650 1.2%
    20. — The Flight into Egypt, 1670 this painting 0.0%

    Together these works take 37.1% of all the attention this artist's paintings received over the last twelve months. The catalogue holds 373 works by this artist, of which 143 were looked at at least once. This painting has not been looked at yet in that time — it closes the list without a rank. The same counts, month by month

    Bars measure attention, not quality. Pick the work at the top and this one: name one thing that might make a painting famous beyond how well it is painted.

    Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Sept. 26, 2026

    The Flight into Egypt — Bartolomé Esteban Murillo Part 2 · In context

    About this artwork

    The Flight into Egypt — Bartolomé Esteban Murillo

    Bartolomé Esteban Murillo’s “The Flight into Egypt”: A Seville Sunset of Faith and Family

    Bartolomé Esteban Murillo's "The Flight into Egypt," painted around 1645-1650, isn’t merely a depiction of a biblical narrative; it’s a luminous distillation of Seville’s golden age, a moment captured in oil on canvas that radiates with both religious devotion and the quiet intimacy of family. Born into a modest barber-surgeon's household in 1617, Murillo’s early life was marked by loss – the deaths of his parents casting him under the care of his sister’s husband, a circumstance that subtly shaped his artistic trajectory. This formative period instilled within him a deep appreciation for realism and an ability to imbue everyday scenes with profound emotional resonance, qualities he would later master in his celebrated religious works.

    The painting immediately draws the eye with its masterful use of light – a hallmark of Murillo’s style. He employs a warm, diffused glow, reminiscent of the late afternoon sun filtering through the orange groves surrounding Seville, bathing the figures in a soft, almost ethereal radiance. This isn't the stark illumination favored by earlier Baroque masters like Zurbarán; instead, it creates an atmosphere of gentle serenity and familial warmth. The colors are rich and earthy – deep browns, ochres, and reds—grounded in the vibrant hues of Andalusian life, yet elevated through Murillo’s delicate handling of pigment.

    A Study in Composition and Symbolism

    The composition is remarkably balanced, guiding the viewer's eye seamlessly across the scene. Mary, depicted as a youthful and serene figure, sits astride a horse, her posture conveying both strength and vulnerability. She holds the infant Jesus close to her breast, radiating an aura of protective love. Joseph, positioned beside her, appears steadfast and watchful, his gaze fixed on the horizon—a subtle suggestion of their perilous journey ahead. The two horses, rendered with meticulous detail, are not simply mounts but symbols of movement and destiny, propelling them towards an uncertain future.

    Beyond the immediate narrative, Murillo subtly incorporates symbolic elements. The angels, depicted as benevolent observers in the upper corners of the painting, represent divine guidance and protection. Their presence underscores the idea that this flight is not merely a physical journey but also a spiritual one, guided by God’s grace. The landscape itself—a stylized representation of the Judean wilderness—adds to the sense of mystery and foreboding, hinting at the challenges awaiting the family.

    The Seville School and Murillo's Legacy

    Murillo’s style is often categorized as part of the “Seville School,” a movement that emerged in the mid-17th century and distinguished itself from the more dramatic and emotionally charged works produced by artists like Ribera. While influenced by Flemish masters, Murillo developed his own distinctive approach—one characterized by its realism, luminous color palette, and focus on intimate scenes of everyday life. He skillfully blended religious iconography with secular subjects, creating a unique visual language that resonated deeply with the bourgeois clientele of Seville.

    His “Flight into Egypt” exemplifies this synthesis perfectly. It’s not just a retelling of a biblical story; it's a celebration of family, faith, and the enduring spirit of humanity. Murillo’s ability to capture such profound emotion within a seemingly simple composition is what continues to captivate viewers centuries later. Reproductions of this iconic work offer a window into the heart of Seville during its golden age—a testament to the artistry and vision of one of Spain's most beloved painters.

    Technical Details & Reproduction Considerations

    Originally executed on canvas, “The Flight into Egypt” showcases Murillo’s mastery of oil painting techniques. Note the delicate layering of glazes, creating a remarkable sense of depth and luminosity. The artist’s attention to detail is evident in every brushstroke—from the texture of Mary's robes to the musculature of the horses. When considering reproductions, it’s crucial to select a high-quality print on archival canvas or fine art paper to accurately capture the painting’s rich colors and subtle nuances.

    WahooArt offers meticulously crafted reproductions that faithfully recreate Murillo’s original vision, ensuring that this timeless masterpiece continues to inspire and delight for generations to come. Explore our selection of prints and discover how you can bring a touch of Seville's golden age into your home or office.

    Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Sept. 26, 2026

    The Flight into Egypt — Bartolomé Esteban Murillo Part 3 · About this artwork

    Artist and museum

    Artist

    Bartolomé Esteban Murillo

    Born in Seville, Spain

    A Life Bathed in Andalusian Light

    Bartolomé Esteban Murillo, a name synonymous with the golden age of Spanish Baroque painting, emerged from the vibrant heart of Seville in 1618. His life, though marked by personal tragedy and societal shifts, blossomed into an artistic career that captured the spirit of his time—a period of religious fervor, social change, and burgeoning artistic innovation. Born to Gaspar Esteban, a barber-surgeon, and María Pérez Murillo, within a large family of fourteen children, young Bartolomé experienced early loss with the passing of both parents in quick succession during his childhood. This hardship led him into the guardianship of his sister’s husband, Juan Agustín Lagares, a pivotal figure who would indirectly guide his artistic path. Murillo's initial training began under Juan del Castillo, a local artist and relative through his mother, laying the foundation for a style that would eventually become uniquely his own. The early years were steeped in the realist traditions prevalent in Seville, absorbing influences from masters like Zurbarán, Ribera, and Cano—artists who prioritized stark realism and dramatic intensity. However, Murillo’s genius lay not in mere imitation but in transforming these foundations into something softer, more luminous, and profoundly human.

    From Realism to Radiant Grace

    Murillo's artistic journey wasn’t a sudden leap to fame but rather an evolution marked by distinct phases. His early works, heavily influenced by the austere realism of his contemporaries, showcased a meticulous attention to detail and a somber palette. Young Man with a Basket of Fruit (Personification of Summer), created around 1640-50, exemplifies this period—a grounded depiction of everyday life rendered with remarkable precision. Yet, even in these early pieces, hints of the tenderness and emotional depth that would define his mature style began to emerge. The Young Beggar, painted circa 1645, demonstrates a growing sensitivity towards human suffering, echoing the influence of Velázquez’s masterful portrayals of everyday people. As Murillo matured, his style underwent a remarkable transformation. He moved away from the stark realism of his predecessors, embracing a more polished and refined aesthetic that resonated with the tastes of Seville's burgeoning bourgeois and aristocratic classes. This shift was particularly evident in his religious works, where he infused traditional iconography with an unprecedented sense of warmth, grace, and emotional accessibility. St. Jerome, painted between 1650-52, stands as a testament to this mature style—a softly luminous depiction that radiates serenity and devotion.

    A Master of Religious Sentiment and Genre Scenes

    Murillo’s artistic output was remarkably diverse, encompassing religious paintings, genre scenes, portraits, and mythological subjects. However, he is most celebrated for his depictions of the Immaculate Conception—a subject that captivated him throughout his career and resulted in numerous variations, each imbued with a unique sense of ethereal beauty. These works, characterized by their delicate brushwork, luminous colors, and graceful compositions, became immensely popular and established Murillo as the preeminent painter of religious imagery in Spain. Beyond his sacred subjects, Murillo also excelled at capturing the everyday lives of ordinary people. His genre scenes—depictions of flower girls, street urchins, and beggars—offer a poignant glimpse into the social realities of 17th-century Seville. These paintings are not merely observational studies; they are imbued with a deep sense of empathy and compassion, elevating the humble subjects to a level of dignity and grace. He possessed an extraordinary ability to capture the innocence of childhood, portraying young children with remarkable realism and tenderness.

    Legacy and Enduring Influence

    Bartolomé Esteban Murillo’s impact on the course of Spanish art—and indeed, European painting—is undeniable. He established a distinctive style that blended religious devotion with humanistic sentiment, creating works that resonated deeply with audiences across social strata. His influence extended far beyond his native Spain, inspiring generations of artists throughout Europe. Gainsborough and Greuze, among others, acknowledged their debt to Murillo’s luminous style and sensitive portrayals of human emotion. He trained numerous pupils in his Seville workshop, ensuring the continuation of his artistic legacy. His paintings can be found in prestigious museums worldwide, including the Museo del Prado in Madrid, the Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg, the Wallace Collection in London, and the Timken Museum of Art in San Diego—testaments to his enduring appeal and historical significance. Murillo’s art continues to captivate viewers with its beauty, grace, and profound humanity, solidifying his place as one of the most beloved and influential painters of the Spanish Baroque period. His ability to infuse religious imagery with emotional depth and portray everyday life with empathy ensures that his work remains relevant and inspiring centuries after his death in 1682.

    Museum

    Szépművészeti Múzeum

    On show in Budapest, Hungary

    A Palace of Visions: Unveiling the Szépművészeti Múzeum in Budapest

    Nestled within the imposing grandeur of Heroes’ Square – a monumental space itself steeped in Hungarian history and national identity – lies the Szépművészeti Múzeum, or Museum of Fine Arts. More than simply a repository for artistic treasures, it is an architectural statement of ambition, a testament to Europe's rich artistic journey, and a building designed not merely to house art, but to become art itself. Completed in 1906 by the esteemed architects Albert Schickedanz and Fülöp Herzog, this neoclassical palace whispers tales of bold vision, deliberate exclusion, and an unwavering commitment to presenting the very best of European artistic heritage – a story that continues to unfold within its golden-hued walls.

    The initial conception of the museum was remarkably strategic. Unlike many institutions of its time, the Szépművészeti Múzeum deliberately excluded Hungarian art from its early collections, establishing an international perspective and prioritizing a survey of European masterpieces. This decision, born out of a desire to cultivate a truly cosmopolitan collection, shaped the museum’s trajectory and continues to inform its curatorial approach today. The palace itself was meticulously designed to reflect this ethos – a deliberate departure from the prevailing trends of the era, favoring a grand, classical style that spoke to Europe's artistic past while simultaneously embracing modern sensibilities.

    Architectural Majesty: A Symphony in Stone and Light

    The building’s architectural significance is immediately arresting. The façade, bathed in the warm glow of Hungarian sunlight, is an intricate tapestry of sculpted figures representing various artistic movements – a visual encyclopedia of European art history rendered in stone. Each figure, painstakingly crafted by renowned sculptors, embodies a different era and style, creating a dynamic and engaging spectacle for visitors. Beyond the facade, the interior spaces are equally impressive, boasting soaring ceilings adorned with elaborate frescoes, marble floors that gleam under the light, and meticulously restored rooms that evoke the elegance of the early 20th century. The architects skillfully blended neoclassical ideals – symmetry, proportion, and grandeur – with a touch of modern innovation, resulting in a building that is both timelessly beautiful and remarkably functional.

    A Panorama of European Art: Highlights from Antiquity to Today

    Within its walls, the Szépművészeti Múzeum boasts an astonishing collection exceeding 100,000 pieces, meticulously organized into six distinct departments that offer a comprehensive overview of European art history. The museum’s highlights are truly captivating, ranging from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary works. A visit is a journey through time and style, beginning with the breathtaking Egyptian Collection – a miniature replica of the famed halls of Cairo, housing monumental sarcophagi guarding pharaohs and intricate hieroglyphic inscriptions that narrate tales of gods and rulers. Moving forward, one encounters captivating Greek and Roman sculptures, embodying the enduring legacy of Western artistic tradition; Old Master paintings by masters like Maso di Banco and Raphael’s poignant “Esterhazy Madonna,” alongside Rubens' dramatic "Mucius Scaevola Before Porsenna"; a vibrant Dutch Masters Wing showcasing Rembrandt’s evocative portraits and Vermeer’s serene landscapes; and, crucially, the Department of Drawings and Prints – a treasure trove containing Leonardo da Vinci’s preparatory sketches for “The Battle of Anghiari,” offering an unparalleled glimpse into the artist's creative process.

    Beyond the Icons: Unveiling Hidden Gems

    While the museum is undoubtedly renowned for its iconic works, it offers far more than just familiar masterpieces. The collection extends beyond celebrated paintings and sculptures to encompass intimate drawings, striking sculptures, and captivating prints – providing a richer, more nuanced understanding of European art history. Particular attention should be drawn to the Old Sculpture Collection, which includes a fascinating equestrian sculpture tentatively attributed to Leonardo da Vinci—a testament to the museum’s dedication to preserving even the most enigmatic aspects of artistic history. The sheer breadth and depth of the collection ensure that every visitor will discover something new and unexpected.

    A Living Legacy: Engagement and Innovation

    The Szépművészeti Múzeum is not merely a static museum; it’s a vibrant cultural hub actively fostering appreciation for the arts. Through rotating exhibitions, engaging educational programs, and ongoing research initiatives, the museum remains remarkably relevant in an ever-changing world. Workshops, lectures, and family activities are designed to inspire curiosity and foster a deeper connection with European art heritage. Located within Heroes’ Square – a symbolic heartland of Hungarian national identity – the museum continues to evolve, ensuring its place as a vital contributor to Budapest's thriving artistic scene. For more information on current exhibitions and events, please visit:

    https://www.mfab.hu/

    Where to read more

    Find this online

    QR code linking to the download page for The Flight into Egypt

    originaluniqueart.com/en/art/download/bartolome-esteban-murillo-the-flight-into-egypt-D3ZBUF-en/

    Cite this artwork

    MLA
    Murillo, Bartolomé Esteban. The Flight into Egypt. 1670, Szépművészeti Múzeum. https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/bartolome-esteban-murillo-the-flight-into-egypt-D3ZBUF-en/
    APA
    Murillo, Bartolomé Esteban (1670). The Flight into Egypt [Painting]. Szépművészeti Múzeum. https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/bartolome-esteban-murillo-the-flight-into-egypt-D3ZBUF-en/
    Chicago
    Bartolomé Esteban Murillo. The Flight into Egypt. 1670. Szépművészeti Múzeum. https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/bartolome-esteban-murillo-the-flight-into-egypt-D3ZBUF-en/
    Harvard
    Murillo, Bartolomé Esteban (1670) The Flight into Egypt. Szépművészeti Múzeum. Available at: https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/bartolome-esteban-murillo-the-flight-into-egypt-D3ZBUF-en/

    Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Sept. 26, 2026

    The Flight into Egypt — Bartolomé Esteban Murillo Part 4 · Artist and museum

    Look closely

    The Flight into Egypt — Bartolomé Esteban Murillo

    Look closely

    Answer in your own words. There are no wrong answers here — only answers you can explain.

    1. What catches your eye first, and why?
    2. Which colours or shapes create the mood — and what is that mood?
    3. Our catalogue files this work under: religious scene, flight to egypt, mary. Do you agree? What would you add, or take away?
    4. Look back at Immaculate Conception of Soult (1678), earlier in this guide. Name two things it shares with this work, and one that is different.
    5. Baroque Painting: Dramatic, theatrical pictures using deep shadow and strong diagonals to pull you into the action. Where can you see that in this work?

    Your response

    Write a short paragraph about this artwork. Use the facts from the earlier parts of this guide, and your answers above.

    Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Sept. 26, 2026

    The Flight into Egypt — Bartolomé Esteban Murillo Part 5 · Look closely

    Art quiz

    The Flight into Egypt — Bartolomé Esteban Murillo

    How well do you know this artwork?

    Tick one answer for each of the 5 questions below. Each has exactly one correct answer.

    1. 1. What is the primary subject depicted in Bartolomé Esteban Murillo’s ‘The Flight into Egypt’?

      • A A depiction of the birth of Jesus.
      • B The journey of Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus to Egypt.
      • C A scene from the life of Saint Matthew.

    2. 2. In what year was ‘The Flight into Egypt’ painted?

      • A 1630
      • B 1670
      • C 1645

    3. 3. Who is the artist responsible for creating ‘The Flight into Egypt’?

      • A Diego Velázquez
      • B Bartolomé Esteban Murillo
      • C Rembrandt van Rijn

    4. 4. According to the description, what is a prominent feature of the angels in the painting?

      • A They are depicted as fierce warriors.
      • B They appear to be watching over the family as they travel through the sky.
      • C They are engaged in a lively conversation with Mary and Joseph.

    5. 5. Bartolomé Esteban Murillo was primarily associated with which artistic movement?

      • A Rococo
      • B Baroque
      • C Renaissance

    My score: ____ out of 5

    Answer key — for the teacher

    This starts a fresh printed page, so it can simply be left out of the copies.

    1B · 2B · 3B · 4B · 5B

    Check any answer against the catalogue record for this painting

    Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Sept. 26, 2026

    The Flight into Egypt — Bartolomé Esteban Murillo Part 6 · Art quiz

    Questions & Answers

    Are there works similar to "The Flight into Egypt"?

    The Similars page of "The Flight into Egypt" by Bartolomé Esteban Murillo presents related artworks.

    Is "The Flight into Egypt" more bright or more dark overall?

    The recorded values for "The Flight into Egypt" by Bartolomé Esteban Murillo are: deep_shadow brightness, dark luminance.

    Where does "The Flight into Egypt" stand among Bartolomé Esteban Murillo's recurring subjects?

    Bartolomé Esteban Murillo's recurring themes include spanish baroque, religious fervor, seville life, social commentary, murillo’s style, idealized figures, family piety, biblical narrative; "The Flight into Egypt" focuses on religious scene, flight to egypt, mary, joseph, jesus, angels, horseback travel, andalusian light.