Who painted The Adoration of the Shepherds?

The Adoration of the Shepherds was painted by Achille Désiré le Fèvre in 1850.

Where can I see The Adoration of the Shepherds?

The Adoration of the Shepherds is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

Artwork

The Adoration of the Shepherds

The Adoration of the Shepherds is a print by Achille Désiré le Fèvre. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

The Adoration of the Shepherds is a print on paper, created in 1850 by Achille Désiré le Fèvre after a work by Correggio, signed as 'A. Lefère'. The scene depicts a nighttime nativity with the baby Jesus, surrounded by the Virgin, Joseph, angels, and visiting shepherds, set against a dark, glowing landscape.

Subject & Meaning

The print illustrates a biblical narrative: the adoration of the newborn Jesus by shepherds, announcing the birth of Christ. The composition emphasizes the divine moment, with lighting guiding the viewer's attention to key figures and elements.

Technique & Style

The print employs strong chiaroscuro, contrasting light and dark to create depth and draw focus to important elements in the scene, such as the baby Jesus and the heavenly angels. This technique is reminiscent of Correggio's original work, which le Fèvre interprets in his print.

History & Provenance

Created in 1850 by Achille Désiré le Fèvre, the print is an interpretation of a work by the Italian Renaissance master Correggio. The piece is signed 'A. Lefère', reflecting the artist's name variation.

Context

This 19th-century print reflects the ongoing influence of Renaissance art, with le Fèvre revisiting Correggio's style and themes. The use of chiaroscuro also aligns with broader artistic traditions emphasizing dramatic lighting.

Legacy

As a print after Correggio, The Adoration of the Shepherds contributes to the dissemination of Renaissance artistic ideals during the 19th century, though its specific impact or prominence in le Fèvre's oeuvre is not widely documented.