Artwork
Adoration of the Shepherds
Adoration of the Shepherds is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Nicolaes Maes. It dates from 1660 and is held in the collection of the J. Paul Getty Museum.
About this work
Overview
The Adoration of the Shepherds is a 1660 oil painting by Nicolaes Maes, a Dutch artist known for his portraits. It is a religious scene that showcases Maes' skill in using light and shadow.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts the Christ Child surrounded by the Holy Family and shepherds, conveying a sense of intimacy and reverence. The inclusion of everyday objects, such as a bucket, adds to the scene's humble atmosphere.
Technique & Style
Maes employs chiaroscuro, a technique that uses strong contrasts between light and dark, to create a sense of depth and volume in the scene. The dimly lit room and the soft light from the window emphasize the figures and their emotions.
History & Provenance
The painting is part of the J. Paul Getty Museum's collection. Maes, a student of Rembrandt, initially worked in Dordrecht before becoming a prominent portrait painter in Amsterdam in the late 17th century.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Nicolaes Maes (January 1634 – December 1693; buried 24 December 1693) was a Dutch painter known for his genre scenes, portraits, religious compositions and the occasional still life.
