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The Three Kings have arrived to worship the newborn Christ. The Virgin Mary presents the baby, who has a bright halo of light around his tiny head, to the kneeling king, who takes the child’s small foot in his hand in order to kiss it. Spranger has positioned the two other kings around the mother and child; both proudly bear ornate gold vessels containing their gifts. They adopt elegant poses, their limbs curving and arching gracefully. The citrus colours of the kings' clothing – peach shot with bright orange and acidic yellow – stand out in the darkness. The self-conscious glamour of the figures is a feature of the style known as Mannerism. Its elegance and flamboyance suited the tastes of wealthy and sophisticated patrons, making it a popular style in courtly circles.
Title
The Adoration of the Kings
Date
about 1595
Medium
Oil on canvas
Measurements
H 199.8 x W 143.7 cm
Accession number
NG6392
Acquisition method
Bought, 1970
Work type
Painting
The National Gallery, London
Trafalgar Square, London, Greater London WC2N 5DN England
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