The Flight into Egypt - Limbourg brothers

A fine art print of the Flight into Egypt, a miniature from the Très Riches Heures du Duc de Berry, showcasing the refined detail of International Gothic illumination.

This miniature originates from the Très Riches Heures du Duc de Berry, a manuscript commissioned by Jean, Duke of Berry, and executed by the Limbourg brothers: Herman, Paul, and Jean. The work represents the International Gothic style, characterised by its attention to detail, decorative borders, and the use of expensive pigments such as ultramarine and gold leaf.

The scene depicts the Holy Family during their journey to Egypt. The Virgin Mary sits atop a donkey, cradling the infant Jesus, while Saint Joseph walks alongside, carrying a staff and a pack. An angel descends from above, guiding their path. The composition is contained within a rectangular frame, surrounded by a dense, foliate border typical of early fifteenth-century French and Flemish book production. The figures are rendered with a focus on narrative clarity, set against a rocky, stylised terrain.

The Limbourg brothers were active in the court of the Duke of Berry, and their work reflects the tastes of the Burgundian nobility. The manuscript is celebrated for its technical precision and the application of colour, which remains remarkably preserved. The border features delicate vine work and small, heraldic-style motifs, which frame the central narrative. This piece provides a window into the devotional practices and artistic production of the late medieval period. The figures display the characteristic elegance of the period, with flowing drapery and refined facial features. The use of space is relatively shallow, prioritising the decorative quality of the page over realistic perspective. This print captures the fine details of the original vellum, including the texture of the ink and the luminosity of the pigments, allowing for a close examination of the brothers' technique.