The Adoration of the Magi

The Adoration of the Magi

Unknown

1640

unspecified

From the collection of Rijksmuseum

About this work

You see three kings, shepherds, and the Holy Family gathered around a baby in a ruined temple. One king holds a fancy nautilus-shell cup. This painting was made when artists often copied older works. The ruins look like they’re from a much earlier time—maybe to show how old the story is. The shell cup was a real luxury item back then, a sign of wealth. If you like this scene, check out more at the Rijksmuseum.

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