Artwork
The Adoration of the Shepherds
The Adoration of the Shepherds is a paint painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Jan Erasmus Quellinus. It dates from 1692 and is held in the collection of the Gemäldegalerie Berlin.
About this work
Overview
The Adoration of the Shepherds, painted in 1692 by Jan Erasmus Quellinus, is a religious painting depicting a nighttime scene of shepherds worshiping the infant Christ, accompanied by angels. Characterized by strong contrasts of light and dark, the work exemplifies the Flemish painter's blend of classicizing influences.
Subject & Meaning
The painting illustrates a pivotal Christian narrative: the adoration of the newborn Jesus by shepherds, with angels overhead. The composition emphasizes the divine moment, using light to highlight the sacred figures of the baby and the celestial choir.
Technique & Style
Quellinus employed chiaroscuro to dramatic effect, with a glowing, instrument-playing angelic group above and earthly figures below, sharply defined against a dark background. This technique, combined with classicizing elements (influenced by his father and Paolo Veronese), defines the painting's style.
History & Provenance
Created in 1692 during the Dutch Golden Age, The Adoration of the Shepherds is now part of the collection at the Gemäldegalerie Berlin.
Artist & collection
Artist
Jan Erasmus Quellinus (1634 in Antwerp – 11 March 1715 in Mechelen) was a Flemish painter and draughtsman and a member of the famous Quellinus family of artists.
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
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
The Light of the World
The Adoration of the Shepherds