The Adoration of the Magi

Italian (Veronese School), c. 1442–after 1518 
1484
Oil on canvas
Gift of the Samuel H. Kress Foundation

Domenico Morone has a somewhat unique style among 15^th century artists, in that he combined elements of Gothic painting with classicizing elements, leading one art historian to refer to his work as “ornate classical style.” The Adoration of the Magi shows a crowded procession that mixes classical architectural elements, Oriental figures and dress, and Christian symbolism that would have resonated with viewers of the era, like the peacock perched on a ledge – a symbol of immortality after a legend that the flesh of a peacock does not decay. This painting is unique in its focus on architectural structures as the dominant feature over the characters in the Biblical story themselves. This not only shows Morone’s mastery of painting architecture, but the wider scope of the scene allows the artist to include many small details that provide a treat for the observant viewer.