Artwork Page for Adoration of the Magi

Details / Information for Adoration of the Magi

Adoration of the Magi

1513

Lucas van Leyden

(Netherlandish, 1494–about 1533)
Culture
Netherlands, 16th century
Medium
engraving
Measurements
Sheet: 30.4 x 43.3 cm (11 15/16 x 17 1/16 in.)
Credit Line
Charles W. Harkness Endowment Fund 1923.274
Catalogue raisonné
Hollstein X.89.37
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
Print

Description

While the arrival of the Magi in the Mirror of Holiness, CMA 2005.145.36.b, is a fairly quiet affair, here the kings enter the holy birthplace with great fanfare, accompanied by a large retinue. A wide variety of costumes, poses, figural types, and facial expressions enhance the theatricality and visual interest of the scene. Particularly luxurious are the costumes of the Magi and the priceless gifts they have brought. Amid the noise and splendor, the infant Jesus is distinguished by the brilliant light that emanates from his head.
A horizontally oriented print in black ink depicts a seated woman on the left holding an infant who reaches toward a lidded vessel. A man kneels before them offering the container while two men in fur-lined robes stand nearby with ornate gifts. A dense crowd fills the background, and another man sits on the far left. Fine hatching shades the scene, and the date 1513 and letter L mark the bottom.

Adoration of the Magi

1513

Lucas van Leyden

(Netherlandish, 1494–about 1533)
Netherlands, 16th century

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