The Adoration of the Magi

Italian 16th Century

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of a historical scene featuring architectural edifices and richly-dressed figures. The artwork depicts an intricate cityscape with tall, ornate buildings and a large, castle-like structure on the left. The foreground is filled with a procession of elaborately dressed figures and horses moving towards a seated figure holding a child. The figures are adorned in regal attire, some wearing crowns, and they carry ornate objects. In the background, there is a grouping of other figures, some engaged in different activities. The trees and hills suggest a rural setting beyond the town. The drawing captures the richness of the clothing and the architecture with detailed lines and shading.