On-line gallery
- Reference number
- P01638
- Author
- Rubens, Peter Paul (Flemish)
- Title
- Adoration of the Magi
- Chronology
- 1609-1628
- Technique
- Support
- Measures
- 352 cm x 496 cm
- School
- Theme
- Shown
- Yes
- Entrance
- COLECCIONREAL
- Procedence
- Royal Collection
At the left of the composition,
under a classical column, Mary
helps the Christ Child play with
one of the presents offered by one
of the Magi. The rest of the
figures making up the Kings'
cortege are spread across the work
from there to the right.
In 1609, this painting was
commissioned by the City Government
of Antwerp to commemorate the
Twelve-Year Truce between Spain and
the rebel Dutch provinces. Soon
thereafter, the city donated it to
Ambassador Rodrigo Calderón, who
sent it to Spain.
At that time, the work was smaller
than it is now. It shows Rubens'
first style, which was very
influenced by his then-recent trip
to Italy, with vigorous figures, an
intense use of light and crowded
compositions.
The work entered the Royal
Collection when Calderón died in
1621. When Rubens visited Spain in
1628-2629, he expanded it to it
current dimensions. He added two
Titian-like angels to an upper
strip, and his self-portrait on
horseback, showing his authorship
of this work, on a strip to the
right.
Listen to the
audioguideLocation on the map
