The Adoration of the Shepherds 1560 - 1570

Nicolò Martinelli, called Trometta, made this drawing, "The Adoration of the Shepherds," in Italy in the late 16th or early 17th century. Drawings like this one were often made in preparation for larger paintings, and they were also collected by connoisseurs. The image creates meaning through its use of Christian visual codes and references to classical antiquity. The shepherds' adoration of the newborn Jesus is a humble scene, but the architecture in the background and the presence of angels elevate it. Italy at this time was still deeply religious but also home to a growing awareness of classical forms and values. This drawing shows both influences at work. It's likely that it was produced in the orbit of the Catholic Church, perhaps in response to the Protestant Reformation. As historians, we can use sources such as letters, inventories, and other documents to better understand the social and institutional context in which this drawing was made. By doing so, we can gain a richer understanding of its meaning and significance.