Minneapolis Institute of Art

Adoration of the Magi

Giambattista Tiepolo (Giovanni Battista Tiepolo)

Date

1753–57

Medium

Etching

Department

European Art

Institution

Minneapolis Institute of Art

This is the largest and most complex of Giambattista Tiepolo’s etchings. It also stands apart as a traditional religious subject instead of the artist’s usual whimsical, imaginary subjects (capprichi). Yet, his trademark theatrical flair shines through in the rich costumes, lively poses, stage-like presentation of the ruinous stable against an open sky, and especially the flickering light. The “Adoration of the Magi” is the story of the three kings who followed a brilliant star to see the newborn Jesus in Bethlehem. Upon their arrival they fell to their knees to worship him and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Italy, Europe

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