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The Virgin Mary and Saint Joseph kneel with the shepherds in adoration before the sleeping Christ Child. One shepherd carries a set of bagpipes, the other has a simple flask and bag tied at his waist. Their earthy facial features appear to be related to examples from northern European art. The distant shepherd watching his flock may represent the Annunciation to the Shepherds.The lamb held by the infant Saint John the Baptist symbolises Christ, who will be sacrificed on the Cross for the salvation of mankind. The procession crossing the river in the distance and the approaching riders are perhaps the Three Kings arriving to pay homage to Christ.This is one of three similar pictures of the Adoration of the Shepherds which appear to be by the same artist.
Title
The Adoration of the Shepherds
Date
probably 1525-30
Medium
Oil on canvas
Measurements
H 109.2 x W 160.6 cm
Accession number
NG1377
Acquisition method
Bequeathed by Sir William H. Gregory, 1892
Work type
Painting