Fine Arts

A Majestic ‘Adoration of the Magi’

One of the most magnificent renderings of this story is by Gentile da Fabriano, whose altarpiece is a marvel of technique and composition.
A Majestic ‘Adoration of the Magi’
A detail of "Adoration of the Magi," 1423, by Gentile da Fabriano. Tempera on panel. Uffizi Gallery, Florence. Public Domain
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The Adoration of the Magi has been a popular artistic subject since antiquity. The earliest images are found in Roman catacombs that were carved on marble sarcophagi between the second and fourth centuries.

"Adoration of the Magi" panel, 4th century, from a Roman sarcophagus at the cemetery of St. Agnes in Rome. Vatican Museums, Rome. (Public Domain)
"Adoration of the Magi" panel, 4th century, from a Roman sarcophagus at the cemetery of St. Agnes in Rome. Vatican Museums, Rome. Public Domain
Michelle Plastrik
Michelle Plastrik
Author
Michelle Plastrik is an art adviser living in New York City. She writes on a range of topics, including art history, the art market, museums, art fairs, and special exhibitions.