Adoration of the Magi
Filippo Lippi·1430
Historical Context
Filippo Lippi's Adoration of the Magi, dating to around 1430, is an early work reflecting his transition from the influence of Masaccio and Fra Angelico toward his own distinctive style. The Epiphany subject was especially popular in Florence, where the Compagnia dei Magi held elaborate annual processions. The painting is now in the National Gallery of Art, Washington, and shows Lippi developing the intimate, humanized approach to sacred narrative that defined his career.
Technical Analysis
The early panel reveals Lippi working through the influences of his Florentine predecessors, with solid figure modeling and spatial experimentation combined with decorative details of gold and rich costume.
