Cleveland Museum of Art

Adoration of the Magi

Lucas van Leyden

Date

1513

Medium

engraving

Culture

Netherlands, 16th century

Department

Prints

Institution

Cleveland Museum of Art

While the arrival of the Magi in the Mirror of Holiness, CMA 2005.145.36.b , is a fairly quiet affair, here the kings enter the holy birthplace with great fanfare, accompanied by a large retinue. A wide variety of costumes, poses, figural types, and facial expressions enhance the theatricality and visual interest of the scene. Particularly luxurious are the costumes of the Magi and the priceless gifts they have brought. Amid the noise and splendor, the infant Jesus is distinguished by the brilliant light that emanates from his head.

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