Artwork

The adoration of the Magi

The adoration of the Magi, by Christian Wilhelm Ernst Dietrich, oil, 1731
The adoration of the Magi, by Christian Wilhelm Ernst Dietrich, oil, 1731

The adoration of the Magi is an oil painting by Christian Wilhelm Ernst Dietrich. It dates from 1731 and is held in the collection of the Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden.

About this work

Overview

The Adoration of the Magi is a painting completed in 1731 by Christian Wilhelm Ernst Dietrich, a German painter and art administrator. It is an oil painting held in the Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister collection.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a gathering around the Christ Child, held by a serene-faced woman, likely the Virgin Mary. The surrounding figures, dressed in various robes and attire, display reverence and awe, with some kneeling and others standing.

Technique & Style

Rendered in oil paint, the work features visible brushstrokes and texture. Dietrich's style reflects his ability to emulate earlier artists, characteristic of the religious genre prevalent in 18th-century European art.

Context

The Adoration of the Magi is a representation of a traditional Christian theme, common in European art during the 18th century. Dietrich's work is a testament to the ongoing influence of religious art during this period.

The Adoration of the Magi
The Adoration of the Magi, Francisco Rizi

Artist & collection

Portrait of Christian Wilhelm Ernst Dietrich

Artist

Christian Wilhelm Ernst Dietrich

Christian Wilhelm Ernst Dietrich (30 October 1712 – 23 April 1774) was a German painter and art administrator. In his own works, he was adept at imitating many earlier artists, but never developed a style of his own.

Frequently asked questions

Who painted The adoration of the Magi?

The adoration of the Magi was painted by Christian Wilhelm Ernst Dietrich in 1731.

Where can I see The adoration of the Magi?

The adoration of the Magi is held by Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden.