Artwork

The Adoration of the Shepherd, with the Annunciation to the Shepherds beyond

The Adoration of the Shepherd, with the Annunciation to the Shepherds beyond, by Benvenuto Tisi, unspecified, 1516
The Adoration of the Shepherd, with the Annunciation to the Shepherds beyond, by Benvenuto Tisi, unspecified, 1516

The Adoration of the Shepherd, with the Annunciation to the Shepherds beyond is an unspecified painting by Benvenuto Tisi. It dates from 1516 and is held in the collection of the Fitzwilliam Museum.

About this work

Overview

Benvenuto Tisi's 'The Adoration of the Shepherd, with the Annunciation to the Shepherds beyond' (1516) is a religious painting housed at the Fitzwilliam Museum, depicting a serene Adoration scene with a secondary narrative element in the background.

Subject & Meaning

The painting primarily portrays the Adoration of the Shepherds, with key figures including a kneeling woman (likely Mary) in red and blue, a standing man (possibly Joseph) in green, and attending shepherds. The background hints at the Annunciation to the Shepherds, layering the narrative.

Technique & Style

Tisi employs a contrasting color palette, juxtaposing vibrant red and green against subdued background tones. The use of chiaroscuro enhances depth and dimensionality, contributing to the overall atmosphere of quiet contemplation and reverence.

History & Provenance

Created in 1516, the work's provenance prior to its current location at the Fitzwilliam Museum is not detailed in the provided information.

Context

This painting reflects the artistic and religious themes prevalent during the Italian Renaissance, where biblical scenes were commonly depicted with emerging techniques like chiaroscuro.

Legacy

While specific influence or notable recognitions of 'The Adoration of the Shepherd' are not provided, it contributes to the broader legacy of Renaissance religious art and the oeuvre of Benvenuto Tisi.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Benvenuto Tisi

Artist

Benvenuto Tisi

Benvenuto Tisi (Italian: ; 1481 – September 6, 1559), also known as Il Garofalo (Italian: ), was a Late-Renaissance-Mannerist Italian painter of the School of Ferrara.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Fitzwilliam Museum open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.