The Adoration of the Magi 1470 - 1499

Hugo van der Goes's "The Adoration of the Magi" (1470-1499) is a captivating oil painting that depicts the biblical story of the three wise men visiting the newborn Christ child. The scene is set in a simple interior space, with the figures arranged in a triangular composition that draws the viewer's eye to the central figure of the baby Jesus. The detail in the painting, from the rich textures of the Magi's robes to the subtle expressions on their faces, reveals the artist's skill and his commitment to realism. The inclusion of a black Magi, a unique feature in the depiction of the biblical scene, adds a touch of historical and cultural intrigue to the composition. The painting, now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is a powerful testament to the artistry of the Early Netherlandish period.