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Botticelli painted at least six scenes of the Adoration of the Kings. This, one of his most expansive and ambitious, is painted in a circular format called a tondo. The figures and animals in the outer circle face inwards to pay respect to the Christ Child, inviting the viewer to do the same. Botticelli has raised the Virgin and Child upon a natural rocky platform, ensuring the viewer looks up towards them in reverence.A makeshift roof has been inserted within the central arch so that it doubles as the humble stable where Christ was born. Crumbling classical architecture was a common feature in religious paintings in the Renaissance period, symbolising how Christianity had surpassed pagan religion and culture.The picture may have belonged to the Pucci, a Florentine family.
Title
The Adoration of the Kings
Date
about 1470-5
Medium
Tempera on poplar
Measurements
H 130.8 x W 130.8 cm
Accession number
NG1033
Acquisition method
Bought, 1878
Work type
Painting
The National Gallery, London
Trafalgar Square, London, Greater London WC2N 5DN England
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