The Adoration of the Magi

late 16th century - early 17th century

oil painting on canvas

Measurements: 72 x 60 cm.

with frame 86 x 74 cm.

The proposed painting depicts the scene of the Adoration of the Magi, a favorite theme in ancient painting which is based on a traditional iconography, where the three sumptuously dressed kings are portrayed in front of the figures of the Holy Family, placed on the left of the composition. The older one, kneeling in adoration of the Child while kissing his hand, has already placed the crown and sword at the feet of the Virgin, while the second and third await their moment to honor the sacred event, with their precious gifts still in hands.

The work, of excellent quality and mature pictorial execution, fits perfectly within the Tuscan mannerism, between the end of the sixteenth and early seventeenth centuries, with direct evidence that can approach it in the modus pingendi of the Flemish Jan Van der Straet (Bruges 1523 - Florence 1605), Italianized in Giovanni Stradano, active mainly in Florence.

Flemish by origin, his artistic training took place in Antwerp, and then moved to Italy around 1550, first to Venice, and later to Florence, where he found employment with the Grand Duke Cosimo I in the circle of Giorgio Vasari. Valuable are some of his altarpieces for some Florentine churches and the numerous drawings that were used to create some engravings which then had a wide diffusion.

However, it is difficult to approach the production of our canvas with a specific hand, since there are evident mixtures between the Flemish art imported by the painter with the Italian one.

The painting is superbly decorative, of good executive quality and characterized by a design with vigorous lines, with a marked play of chiaroscuro.

The work is in good condition, the canvas is healthy, it has some touches scattered on the surface.

Like all our objects, the work is sold with a certificate of photographic authenticity in accordance with the law.

We take care and organize the transport of the purchased works, both for Italy and abroad, through professional and insured carriers.

Contact us for any information, we will be happy to answer you.