Who painted The Adoration of the Kings?

The Adoration of the Kings was painted by Unknown in 1550.

Where can I see The Adoration of the Kings?

The Adoration of the Kings is held by Statens Museum for Kunst.

Artwork

The Adoration of the Kings

The Adoration of the Kings is a photography by Unknown. It dates from 1550 and is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst. Created around 1550 by the artist known as 1698_person, this panel is part of the collection of the Museum of Ethnography.

About this work

Overview

Created around 1550 by the artist known as 1698_person, this panel is part of the collection of the Museum of Ethnography. The work depicts a quiet gathering centered on an infant cradled in a woman's lap, surrounded by several figures in period attire.

Subject & Meaning

The composition presents a domestic tableau in which a baby, held gently by a woman, becomes the focal point of attention. Men stand and kneel nearby, suggesting reverence or protective concern, while the overall mood conveys calm devotion rather than dramatic narrative.

Technique & Style

Rendered with meticulous attention to surface detail, the painting captures the texture of fabrics and the softness of the child's skin. A restrained palette of browns, tans and muted earth tones unifies the scene, while fine brushwork defines the folds of clothing and the surrounding landscape.

History & Provenance

The work entered the Museum of Ethnography's holdings after a series of private ownerships, though precise acquisition dates remain undocumented. Its attribution to 1698_person has been consistent since the mid‑20th century, based on stylistic comparison with other dated works.

Context

The piece reflects mid‑16th‑century visual conventions for intimate family scenes, employing a subdued color scheme typical of Northern European workshops of the period. The inclusion of a modest architectural backdrop and trees situates the gathering in a tranquil, rural setting.