The adoration of the Christ-child

The Master of the Saint Bartholomew Altarpiece painted this Adoration of the Christ Child around 1501, bringing his characteristically ornamental style to the intimate Nativity subject. The Master's jewel-like technique and brilliant coloring transform even simple devotional subjects into visual spectacles. The oil medium allowed for rich tonal transitions and glazed layers of color that created luminous depth impossible with the older tempera technique. Such devotional panels served both liturgical contexts in churches and chapels and private devotional use in the homes of wealthy families who maintained personal altars and oratories.

Oil on panel with the Master's extraordinary jewel-like palette and meticulous decorative detail. The intimate scene is enriched with the ornamental richness that distinguishes this painter.