Artwork
Adoration of the Shepherds

Adoration of the Shepherds is an unspecified painting by the Flemish Baroque painting artist Cornelius van Poelenburgh. It dates from 1650 and is held in the collection of the Hermitage Museum.
About this work
Overview
Cornelius van Poelenburgh's Adoration of the Shepherds, a Flemish Baroque painting created circa 1650, is a representation of the Christ Child surrounded by figures. The work is characteristic of the artist's style, blending landscape and biblical themes.
Subject & Meaning
The scene depicts the Adoration of the Shepherds, with the Christ Child at its center, lying on a white cloth and surrounded by a group of figures, including a seated woman, kneeling and standing attendants, and flying angels in the upper left corner.
Technique & Style
The painting features a predominantly dark color palette, with lighter shades used for the clothing of the figures, creating a contrast that draws attention to the central scene. The use of chiaroscuro emphasizes the figures and the Christ Child.
History & Provenance
Painted by Cornelius van Poelenburgh, a Dutch artist known for his Italianate landscapes and active in Rome, the work is now held in the State Hermitage Museum.
Artist & collection
Artist
Cornelis van Poelenburgh or Cornelis van Poelenburch (1594 – 12 August 1667), was a Dutch landscape painter and draughtsman.



















