Adoration of the Magi

About this work

This crowded scene shows a group of people gathered around a woman holding a baby. Some kneel, others stand, all dressed in old-fashioned robes. In the background, there’s a dimly lit building with small windows and a bright sky above it. The figures look busy—some are offering gifts, others seem to be praying or watching. Notice how the artist used deep shadows to make the figures stand out against the dark background. The light comes from above, lighting up the woman and baby at the center. Look up chiaroscuro next to see how this lighting trick works.