Artwork
The Adoration of the Shepherds
The Adoration of the Shepherds is an oil painting by the Barbizon school artist Gaetano Gandolfi. It dates from 1778 and is held in the collection of the Ashmolean Museum.
About this work
Overview
The Adoration of the Shepherds is a late 18th-century oil painting by Gaetano Gandolfi, an Italian artist known for his work in the Baroque style.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts the biblical scene of the shepherds' adoration of the newborn Jesus, with Mary and Joseph present, surrounded by angels and shepherds in various poses, conveying a sense of reverence and celebration.
Technique & Style
Gandolfi's use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of depth and volume, with strong contrasts between light and dark areas, characteristic of the Baroque style, while the composition and figures display a sense of dynamic movement and energy.
History & Provenance
Created around 1778, the painting is now held in the Ashmolean Museum's collection, exemplifying Gandolfi's work in the religious genre.
Artist & collection
Artist
Gaetano Gandolfi (31 August 1734 – 20 June 1802) was an Italian painter, draughtsman and sculptor of the late Baroque period, mainly active in and around Bologna.
The Adoration of the Shepherds
The Adoration of the Shepherds
The Adoration of the Shepherds
The Adoration of the Shepherds
The Adoration of the Shepherds
Adoration of the Shepherds
The Flight into Egypt
Anbetung der Hirten (zugeschrieben)
The Flight into Egypt
Adoration of the Kings, after van Loon
Aanbidding der herders
Rest on the Flight into Egypt