Artwork
Adoration of the Magi
Adoration of the Magi is an oil painting. It dates from 1562 and is held in the collection of the Kunsthistorisches Museum.
About this work
Subject & Meaning
The composition includes the Virgin Mary, the infant Jesus, and Joseph alongside the Biblical Magi, illustrating the moment of recognition and homage.
The work depicts the biblical Adoration of the Magi, a religious scene centered on the worship of the Christ Child by the Three Kings. The composition includes the Virgin Mary, the infant Jesus, and Joseph alongside the Biblical Magi, illustrating the moment of recognition and homage. As a piece of religious art, the painting represents the theological significance of the Gentiles acknowledging the divinity of the newborn Jesus. This subject matter aligns with the work's classification as a religious painting created in 1562.
Technique & Style
Created in 1562, this religious painting is executed in oil paint on a poplar panel support. The work measures 58 cm in height and 49 cm in width. Stylistically, it is attributed to an anonymous artist working after Titian, reflecting the influence of the Venetian master within the genre of religious art.
The composition depicts the adoration of the Magi, featuring the Virgin Mary, the Christ Child, Joseph, and the Biblical Magi.
History & Provenance
The Adoration of the Magi was created in 1562 as an oil painting on poplar panel. It was commissioned by Archduke Leopold Wilhelm of Austria and subsequently entered the collection of the Kunsthistorisches Museum, where it remains today. The work is attributed to an anonymous follower of Titian and depicts the biblical scene of the Magi adoring the infant Christ, Mary, and Joseph.
The painting measures 58 cm in height and 49 cm in width.
Overview
The work titled Adoration of the Magi is an oil painting that presents a crowded gathering around a central mother and infant. The composition places the woman and child at the focal point, while surrounding figures, dressed in varied travel attire and rich robes, lean in, gesture, and present gifts. A muted landscape with a dark sky and distant, faintly illuminated hills forms the backdrop, lending depth to the scene.
Artist & collection
