The adoration of the shepherds 16th century

This anonymous 16th-century drawing, "The Adoration of the Shepherds," housed in the Statens Museum for Kunst (SMK), depicts the biblical scene of the shepherds' visit to the newborn Christ. Executed in a delicate brown wash, the piece showcases the artist's skilled handling of light and shadow, creating a sense of depth and intimacy within the composition. The work's simple, direct style is characteristic of the period, with figures rendered in a natural, expressive manner, emphasizing the reverence and awe felt by the shepherds at the sight of the divine child. The drawing is a powerful testament to the enduring impact of this central theme in Christian art.