Artwork

Adoration of the Shepherds

Adoration of the Shepherds, by Carlo Maratta, oil, 1696
Adoration of the Shepherds, by Carlo Maratta, oil, 1696

Adoration of the Shepherds is an oil painting by the High Baroque Italian artist Carlo Maratta. It dates from 1696 and is held in the collection of the Hermitage Museum.

About this work

Overview

Adoration of the Shepherds is a 1696 oil painting on canvas by Carlo Maratta, a prominent Italian Baroque artist known for his classicizing style. The work is part of the religious genre and currently resides in the State Hermitage Museum collection.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts the Christ Child surrounded by a group of adoring figures, with angels overhead, conveying a scene of wonder and devotion. The composition evokes peace and tranquility.

Technique & Style

Maratta employed chiaroscuro, leveraging strong light and dark contrasts to achieve depth and volume in the scene, characteristic of his Italian Late Baroque approach.

History & Provenance

Created in 1696 for a Roman patron (likely a prominent one, given Maratta's clientele), the painting is now part of the State Hermitage Museum's collection.

Context

As a work by Maratta, it reflects the artistic tastes of late 17th-century Rome, catering to the religious and aesthetic preferences of his elite patrons, including popes.

Legacy

While specific impact details are not provided, as part of Maratta's oeuvre, Adoration of the Shepherds contributes to the broader legacy of Italian Baroque art, particularly its religious themes and classicizing tendencies.

Adoration of the Shepherds
Adoration of the Shepherds, Bernardo Cavallino

Artist & collection

Portrait of Carlo Maratta

Artist

Carlo Maratta

Carlo Maratta or Maratti (18 May 1625 – 15 December 1713) was an Italian Baroque painter and draughtsman, active principally in Rome where he was the leading painter in the second half of the 17th century.

Hermitage Museum

Museum

Hermitage Museum

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Hermitage Museum open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted Adoration of the Shepherds?

Adoration of the Shepherds was painted by Carlo Maratta in 1696.

Where can I see Adoration of the Shepherds?

Adoration of the Shepherds is held by Hermitage Museum.

What movement is Adoration of the Shepherds?

Adoration of the Shepherds is associated with High Baroque Italian.

Can I buy a print of Adoration of the Shepherds?

Museum-quality prints of Adoration of the Shepherds are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.