Adoration of the Magi – Italian School
Origin
Italy
Age
around 1670- 1700
Size
30.7 cm x 36.4 cm
Previous owner
Munich private collection
Description
The Adoration of the Magi – Italian School
The painting“The Adoration of the Magi” belongs to the Italian school and was created around 1670-1700. During this period, religious painting was an important means of expression that was very popular and had a permanent place in both churches and private collections. Oil painting on copper was particularly popular in the 17th/18th century, as this medium allowed for fine detail and vivid colors. The artists of this era attached great importance to the depiction of religious scenes, which not only served spiritual edification but were also regarded as a symbol of the owners’ wealth and education.
Description of the painting:
The painting depicts a classic scene from Christian iconography: the adoration of the newborn baby Jesus by Mary in the middle, Joseph and the three wise men from the East, Caspar, Melchior and Balthasar. In the center of the picture, Mary presents the baby Jesus sitting on her lap, Joseph stands at her side (right) in amazement. The three kings gaze reverently at the newborn in the left part of the picture, each of them with a precious gift in their hands, symbolizing gold, frankincense and myrrh.
The figures are masterfully crafted, with particular attention paid to the texture of their garments. These are kept in magnificent colors, which have a special luminosity thanks to the oil painting on copper. The faces of the protagonists radiate a deep spiritual emotion, which is enhanced by the delicate modeling and the play of light and shadow.
The frame surrounding the painting consists of profiled strips and is decorated with tortoiseshell, which further enhances the work of art. Tortoiseshell was a luxurious and expensive material in the 18th century and underlines the high value of the picture. Overall, the work combines artistic mastery with profound religious symbolism and exemplifies the high quality of Italian painting in this period.
The painting is in a very good state of preservation.
A charming and rare collector’s item!