Artwork
Adoration of the Shepherds

Adoration of the Shepherds is an unspecified painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Pier Francesco Mola. It dates from 1641 and is held in the collection of the Kunsthistorisches Museum.
About this work
Subject & Meaning
Created in 1641, this religious painting by Pier Francesco Mola depicts the biblical event known as the Adoration of the Shepherds.
Created in 1641, this religious painting by Pier Francesco Mola depicts the biblical event known as the Adoration of the Shepherds. The composition centers on the Christ Child, who serves as the primary focal point of the narrative. As a work of religious art, the subject matter represents the moment when shepherds visit the newborn Jesus to offer their homage and worship, a traditional theme in Christian iconography.
History & Provenance
The painting Adoration of the Shepherds was created by the Italian artist Pier Francesco Mola in 1641. This religious work, which depicts the Christ Child, has an inception date firmly established as 1641. The piece is currently held in the collection of the Kunsthistorisches Museum, where it remains located.
While the specific circumstances of its original commission and the detailed chain of ownership prior to its museum acquisition are not outlined in the available records, its creation history is defined by Mola's authorship during the early 1640s.
Pier Francesco Mola's Adoration of the Shepherds, dated to 1641, is held in the collection of the Kunsthistorisches Museum. The painting is classified as a religious work depicting the Christ Child and the adoration scene. While the museum location is confirmed, the provided sources do not list a specific inventory or accession number for the work. Additionally, the available documentation contains no record of the painting's exhibition history.
Overview
Adoration of the Shepherds is a 1641 painting by Pier Francesco Mola, held at the Kunsthistorisches Museum.
Technique & Style
Mola employed chiaroscuro, using strong contrasts between light and dark to create a dramatic atmosphere. The figures' faces and hands are rendered with a soft, lifelike quality, while shadows add depth to the scene.
Artist & collection
Artist
Pier Francesco Mola, called Il Ticinese was an Italian painter of the High Baroque, mainly active around Rome.


















