Artwork

Circumcision (previous Adoration of the Magi)

Circumcision (previous Adoration of the Magi), by Unknown, oil
Circumcision (previous Adoration of the Magi), by Unknown, oil

Circumcision (previous Adoration of the Magi) is an oil painting by Unknown. It is held in the collection of the National Museum of Fine Arts, Argentina. The oil painting, formerly titled *Adoration of the Magi*, now bears the name *Circumcision*.

About this work

Overview

The oil painting, formerly titled *Adoration of the Magi*, now bears the name *Circumcision*. It presents a domestic interior where a newborn lies on a table, surrounded by a small gathering of figures who observe the infant with quiet attention.

Subject & Meaning

At the composition’s core is the infant, whose placement on the table suggests a ritualistic moment, likely referencing the biblical circumcision ceremony. The surrounding participants, caught in contemplative poses, reinforce the solemnity of the event.

Technique & Style

The artist employs chiaroscuro to model forms, using strong light-dark contrasts that give the scene depth and focus the eye on the baby. Architectural elements such as columns and a striped red‑black wall recede into shadow, enhancing the three‑dimensional effect.

History & Provenance

Originally identified as an *Adoration of the Magi*, the work was later re‑titled to reflect its reinterpretation of the infant’s ritual. No further provenance details are provided.

Context

The interior setting, with classical columns and patterned wall, aligns with the period’s interest in combining biblical narrative with contemporary domestic spaces, allowing viewers to relate sacred moments to familiar surroundings.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known