Rest on the Flight Into Egypt by Titian.
His reputation in art history circles has never waned, as a recent early work sold at auction proves.
On July 2,The Rest on the Flight to Egyptsold for $22 millionat Christie’s.
“Rest on the Flight Into Egypt” by Titian. c. 1510 (Photo: viaWikimedia Commons, Public domain)
This sets a new auction record for the artist.
The Biblical scene from the Gospel of Matthew was a common subject for painters in the Renaissance.
The intimate familial scene gives a beautiful glimpse of Titian’s future artistic development.
“Archduke Leopold Wilhelm in his gallery in Brussels” by David Teniers the Younger. c. 1647–1651. (Photo: viaWikimedia Commons, Public domain)
In the background, we see the pastoral landscape that was a hallmark of his work.
Mary’s clothing, rendered in a pinkish-red hue, previews the palette he would frequently use.
This contrasts with her ultramarine blue mantle and Joseph’s bright yellow clothing.
The piece was stolen not once but twice during its lifetime.
The first time occurred when it was in the expansive Italian art collection of Austria’s Archduke Leopold Wilhelm.
When Napoleon’s troops occupied Vienna in 1809, they looted the collection and took the painting to Paris.
It was later returned in 1815 after the fall of Napoleon.
As it changes hands once again,The Rest on the Flight to Egyptproves Titian’s incredible staying power.
Archduke Leopold Wilhelm in his gallery in Brussels by David Teniers the Younger.
