The Adoration of the Kings (1506) by Giorgione

The Adoration of the Kings - Giorgione - 1506

Artwork Information

TitleThe Adoration of the Kings
ArtistGiorgione
Date1506
Mediumoil,wood
Dimensions29.8 x 81.3 cm
Art MovementHigh Renaissance
Current LocationNational Gallery, London, UK

About The Adoration of the Kings

“The Adoration of the Kings,” crafted by the artist known as Giorgione in 1506, is a High Renaissance religious painting executed in oil on wood. The artwork’s dimensions are 29.8 cm in height by 81.3 cm in width, and it presently resides in the National Gallery in London, UK.

The artwork depicts the biblical scene of the Magi, or Wise Men, visiting the newborn Jesus Christ to pay homage and present him with gifts. This event is often referred to as the Epiphany in the Christian liturgical calendar. On the left side of the painting, the Virgin Mary is seen seated, holding the Christ Child on her lap, with a quiet donkey resting its head near them, a frequent symbol of humility in such scenes. A significant figure, presumably one of the kings, is kneeling in the center foreground, offering a gift to the child. His attire, like that of the others present, is rich in color and detail, indicating his royal status and the significance of the occasion.

Behind this central figure, other attendees are arrayed, including a figure in a green garment and another king standing with an entourage of followers. To the right, the procession continues with more figures, and a peek at the horses that presumably carried the kings and their retinue. These individuals are also elaborately dressed, their varied clothing styles and colors signifying their different origins and statuses. The artwork’s composition showcases the grandeur of the moment and the convergence of diverse peoples in adoration of the Christ Child. The palette is vivid, the attention to detail meticulous, and the expressions on the faces of each character convey a solemnity befitting the depicted event.

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