The Adoration of the Shepherds
Copyright
Work in the public domain
Image: Courtauld
Image: Courtauld
Maker
Attributed to
Master of the Twelve Apostles
active 1525-1540 (Life dates)
Master of the Twelve Apostles
active 1525-1540 (Life dates)
Formerly attributed to
1481-1559
1481-1559
Title
The Adoration of the Shepherds
Date of Production
c. 1530
Medium
oil on panel
Dimensions
Height: 40.2 cm (panel)
Width: 28.1 cm (panel)
Width: 28.1 cm (panel)
Object Number
P.1966.GP.160
Mode of Acquisition
Gambier-Parry, bequest, 1966
Credit
Courtauld Gallery, London (Samuel Courtauld Trust)
Label Text
Although the subject of this painting is the celebration of Christ’s birth, the references are largely to his death. The white cloth on which he sleeps echoes the shroud in which he will be buried. The lamb carried by the shepherd in the distance alludes to Christ’s sacrifice. The cross itself, surrounded by angels, is visible in the orange cloud above.
Provenance
Gambier-Parry Bequest 1966
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