The Mysteries of the Passion: The Adoration of the Kings

1631

From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art

Dominant colour

The Mysteries of the Passion: The Adoration of the Kings is a 1631 by Jacques Callot, a Baroque work, held at Cleveland Museum of Art.

Who painted this?: Jacques Callot
When & what style?: 1631 · Baroque
Where can I see it?: Cleveland Museum of Art

About this work

This sketch shows a group of people gathered outside a small building with a thatched roof. Three figures stand near the doorway, while others sit or kneel on the steps, looking toward a central scene. Inside, someone appears to be lying on a table, and a dog rests on the ground nearby. The drawing is all in black and white, with simple lines and shading to show depth. Notice how the artist uses light and shadow to focus attention on the central figure inside. The scene feels crowded but orderly, with everyone facing the same point. Look up Baroque next to see how this style used drama and movement in art.