Artwork
The Adoration of the Magi
The Adoration of the Magi is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Cristofano Robetta. It dates from 1498 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
The Adoration of the Magi is a 1498 engraving by Cristofano Robetta, a Florentine goldsmith and engraver known for detailed, intricate prints. This work exemplifies his refined style, capturing a biblical scene with precision and depth.
Subject & Meaning
The engraving depicts the biblical scene of the Magi presenting gifts to the infant Jesus, surrounded by a crowd of worshippers, angels, and animals. A woman with two children is centrally positioned, amidst a dynamic gathering of kneeling and standing figures.
Technique & Style
Robetta employed sharp, detailed lines and extensive cross-hatching to achieve three-dimensional depth. This technique, involving tiny parallel lines to build shadows, gives the flat ink-on-paper work a sense of volume and texture.
History & Provenance
Created in 1498, the engraving is characteristic of Robetta's practice of reproducing paintings, some of which are now lost. Examples of his work, including this piece, are found in prominent collections like the Cleveland Museum of Art and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Artist & collection
Artist
Cristofano Robetta (1462 – 1535) was an Italian artist, goldsmith, and engraver. Robetta was a Florentine "who made some rich, intricate engravings in the fine manner". He often made engravings which replicated…
