Artwork
Adoration of the Shepherds
Adoration of the Shepherds is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Bartolomé Esteban Murillo. It dates from 1650 and is held in the collection of the Museo del Prado.
About this work
Overview
Bartolomé Esteban Murillo's 'Adoration of the Shepherds' is an oil on canvas painting created around 1650, housed in the Museo del Prado, Madrid. The artist later produced another version of this subject.
Subject & Meaning
The painting portrays a serene moment of devotion as the Virgin Mary holds the Christ Child, surrounded by shepherds in humble reverence. The scene conveys quiet contemplation and piety.
Technique & Style
Murillo employs a stark contrast between a dark, subtly suggested background (evoking a stable or cave) and a warmly illuminated foreground, focusing attention on the central figures. Earthy tones dominate the shepherds' attire.
History & Provenance
Created circa 1650, the work is part of the Museo del Prado's collection in Madrid. Murillo also created a subsequent version of the same theme, though this piece's specific provenance before entering the Prado is not detailed here.
Context
The Adoration of the Shepherds is a biblical narrative (Luke 2:8-20) frequently depicted in Baroque art, emphasizing the humble and divine aspects of Christ's birth. Murillo's interpretation reflects the emotional intimacy characteristic of his religious works.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
Bartolomé Esteban Murillo ( mure-IL-oh, m(y)uu-REE-oh, Spanish: ; late December 1617, baptised 1 January 1618 – 3 April 1682) was a Spanish Baroque painter.
Adoration of the Shepherds
Adoration of the Shepherds
Adoration of the Shepherds
Adoration of the Shepherds
Adoration of the Shepherds
Adoration of the Shepherds
Adoration of the Shepherds
Adoration of the Shepherds
Adoration of the Shepherds
Adoration of the Shepherds
Adoration of the Shepherds
Adoration of the Shepherds