Artwork
The Adoration of the Shepherds
The Adoration of the Shepherds is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Augustin Hirschvogel. It dates from 1548 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
The Adoration of the Shepherds is an etching created by Augustin Hirschvogel in 1548. It is a print that exemplifies the artist's skill in this medium.
Subject & Meaning
The etching depicts a nativity scene, with the Virgin Mary kneeling beside the Christ child in a manger, surrounded by shepherds and other figures. The scene represents a moment from the Bible, a common subject in Renaissance art.
Technique & Style
The work is characterized by simple lines and a focus on shapes and movement, typical of etching techniques of the period. Hirschvogel's style is associated with the Danube School, known for its landscape etchings and active in Bavaria and Austria.
History & Provenance
Hirschvogel, a German artist, mathematician, and cartographer, produced The Adoration of the Shepherds during a period of significant output, between 1545 and 1549, when he created thirty-five small landscape etchings.
Artist & collection
Artist
Augustin Hirschvogel (1503 – February 1553) was a German artist, mathematician, and cartographer known primarily for his etchings.
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