Adoration of the shepherds 1777

Gottlieb Welté made this drawing titled "Adoration of the Shepherds" with pen and brush in 1777. The scene depicts the shepherds' visit to the newborn Jesus, a common subject in Christian art. But Welté’s interpretation offers a glimpse into the social values of his time. Made in Germany, this artwork reflects the late 18th-century emphasis on piety and humility, virtues often associated with the lower classes. Note how the shepherds, simple and unadorned, are the first to witness the divine birth. The humble setting, a stark contrast to opulent churches, underscores the idea that holiness resides not in grandeur but in simplicity. The image could be commenting on the social structures of its own time, perhaps critiquing the excesses of the aristocracy and the church. To understand this drawing fully, we delve into period literature, religious texts, and social histories. Art becomes a mirror reflecting society's values, beliefs, and power dynamics.