The Exodus from Egypt

Art Historical Context

Behold *The Exodus from Egypt* (1585), an exquisite engraving by Flemish artist Jan Sadeler I, faithfully reproducing a design by Maarten van Cleef. This captures the dramatic biblical narrative from the Book of Exodus, depicting Israelites' perilous flight from Pharaoh's army across the parted Red Sea. Created during the late Northern Renaissance, it reflects the era's fascination with religious history and moral storytelling, blending intricate detail with a sense of awe-inspiring scale. Sadeler's mastery of engraving shines through in the fine lines incised into a metal plate, inked, and pressed onto laid paper—a handmade medium prized for its texture and durability in 16th-century printmaking. This technique allowed for widespread dissemination of van Cleef's composition, making grand religious scenes accessible beyond elite patrons. Measuring a modest plate size of 21.4 x 29.5 cm, the work's precision invites close viewing, revealing turbulent waves, fleeing figures, and divine intervention in stunning clarity. Housed in the National Gallery of Art as a gift from the Estate of Leo Steinberg, this print exemplifies the collaborative spirit of Renaissance workshops and the enduring cultural power of Exodus imagery, symbolizing liberation and faith amid turmoil. A testament to Flemish artistry, it draws visitors into a pivotal moment of human triumph.