The Adoration of the Magi
ca. 1640 - ca. 1650
Medium
oil on tin-plated copper
Dimensions
48.8; 28.4; 6.5
About this artwork
outer size: depth 6.5 cm (support incl. frame)
Art Historical Context
Bartholomeus Breenbergh’s *The Adoration of the Magi* captures the timeless biblical moment when the three wise men present gifts to the infant Christ. Painted between about 1640 and 1650, the small panel reflects the Dutch Golden Age interest in intimate religious scenes intended for private contemplation rather than grand church altarpieces. Breenbergh chose the unusual support of oil on tin-plated copper, a material prized for its smooth surface and ability to hold fine detail and luminous color. Measuring just 28.4 by 48.8 centimeters, the work’s compact scale encourages close viewing, al...
About the Artist
Bartholomeus Breenbergh
Probably was apprenticed in Amsterdam. He was one of the early Dutch italianates, that is, northern artists who travelled to Italy in the 1620s and were inspired by southern landscapes. On his return, he settled in Amsterdam and his landscapes were developed as more severe and monumental, often with historical subjects; strongly influenced by the Pre-Rembrandtists. Comment on works: Landscapes; Ru...