Artwork

The adoration of the shepherds

The adoration of the shepherds, by Adriaen van der Werff, oil, 1703
The adoration of the shepherds, by Adriaen van der Werff, oil, 1703

The adoration of the shepherds is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Adriaen van der Werff. It dates from 1703 and is held in the collection of the Uffizi Gallery.

About this work

Overview

The Adoration of the Shepherds is a 1703 oil painting by Dutch artist Adriaen van der Werff, characterized by a serene and devotional atmosphere. It depicts a key religious scene, currently housed in the Uffizi Gallery.

Subject & Meaning

The painting tenderly portrays the adoration of the newborn Christ, with a central infant figure on a white cloth, surrounded by reverent onlookers. The scene conveys wonder, awe, and peaceful devotion.

Technique & Style

Executed in the Rococo style, the work features a nuanced color palette ranging from soft whites and creams to earthy tones. Strong light and dark contrasts, suggestive of chiaroscuro, enhance depth and volume.

History & Provenance

Created in 1703, the painting is part of the Uffizi Gallery's collection. Adriaen van der Werff, known for portraits and devotional scenes, also worked for the Medici family, with his brother Pieter as a key pupil and assistant.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Adriaen van der Werff

Artist

Adriaen van der Werff

Adriaen van der Werff (21 January 1659 – 12 November 1722) was a Dutch painter of portraits and erotic, devotional and mythological scenes.

Uffizi Gallery

Museum

Uffizi Gallery

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Uffizi Gallery open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.