3-072-121 - Heritage Art/Heritage Images

Adoration of the Magi, 1st half of 15th century. This event was described in the Gospel of St Matthew (Matthew 2:1-7). Zanni di Pietro interpreted this theme according to the tradition that was widespread in 15th-century Italian art by showing the Three Kings riding at the head of a large retinue winding among the hills. The landscape, treated very schematically, is shown against a gold background. The first of the three wise men kneels in front of Mary, sitting and holding the Child on her knees. The outlines of all the figures are emphasised by distinct contours. Their eyes and noses are marked with white luminous points in a manner characteristic of this artist.