Adoration of the Magi
Simon Bening·1520
Historical Context
Simon Bening, the greatest Flemish manuscript illuminator of the sixteenth century, painted this Adoration of the Magi around 1520. Though primarily known for his miniature paintings in devotional books, Bening also produced independent panels and miniatures on parchment. His work represents the final flowering of the great Bruges-Ghent illumination tradition. The painting is in the Fondation de France.
Technical Analysis
Bening's background in manuscript illumination is evident in the exquisite detail and miniaturist precision of the composition. The jewel-like color and meticulous rendering of surfaces translate the illuminator's technique into panel painting.
See It In Person
More by Simon Bening
John the Baptist preaching and the Baptism of Christ
Simon Bening·1510
Pietà
Simon Bening·1522
Triptych of Virgin and Child; Saints Catherine and Barbara
Simon Bening·1520
St. Gertrude de Nivelles, from the Hours of Cardinal Albrecht of Brandenburg (1490-1545), Archibishop and Elector of Mainz
Simon Bening·1523
