Caravaggio (1571-1610)
Riposo durante la Fuga in Egitto (Rest on the Flight into Egypt)
1597
Oil on canvas, 135.5 x 166.5 cm
Galleria Doria Pamphilj, Roma
The “Rest” is a masterpiece of extraordinary beauty and exceptional communicative immediacy by the young Caravaggio, dating back to 1597. The composition is divided in an absolutely original way by the figure of the beautiful angel from behind with large black swallow wings, who plays the violin. On the right, surrounded by lush vegetation, is the Madonna sleeping with the Child in her arms. Both are depicted in an idealized manner and the beauty of their features contrasts with the naturalistic rendering of Saint Joseph, who, although overwhelmed by tiredness, is enraptured by the apparition of the angel and lends himself to holding the score for him. It is the first known painting with a sacred theme and of a large size painted by the artist, who recently arrived in Rome, and still bears evident Lombard and Venetian roots in the luminous and golden tones and in the idyllic tone of the composition. For the Madonna it seems that Caravaggio was inspired by the same model that he posed, probably shortly after, for the “Penitent Magdalene” (FC 357). The notes on the score follow a motet written in 1519 by the Flemish composer Noel Bauldwijn on a text taken from the Song of Songs and dedicated to the Virgin. Purchased, together with the “Penitent Magdalene” and other works, by Donna Olimpia Maidalchini in 1650, it immediately became part of the Pamphilj fidecommissary collection. (GDP)