Adoration of the Magi
Historical Context
Zurbarán's Adoration of the Magi of 1638 is an unusually complex multi-figure composition compared to his typical single-figure devotional works. The biblical narrative of the Magi's visit to Bethlehem allowed for rich costume, variety of age and type, and the contrast between the humble stable setting and the exotic splendor of the Eastern kings. Zurbarán's Adoration shows him working beyond his characteristic format to compete with larger narrative Baroque compositions.
Technical Analysis
The three kings approach the Holy Family in a staged grouping that contrasts the dark, earth-toned Magi with the luminous figure of Mary and the radiant Christ child. Zurbarán uses his characteristic strong directional lighting to isolate each figure distinctly within the composition.
