Adoration of the Magi thumbnail 1
Not currently on display at the V&A

Adoration of the Magi

Panel
second half 15th century (made)
Artist/Maker
Place of origin

The Virgin Mary holding the baby Jesus is shown reclining under a canopy. Joseph is seated below holding his staff in his left hand and resting his head on his right. Next to him are the heads of the Ox and Ass. In the background the Magi are shown presenting gifts to Jesus.

The Gospel of Matthew records how three wise men or Magi came from the East to present gold, frankincense and myrrh to the infant Christ, guided by a miraculous star.

The upper part of the panel is badly broken.


Object details

Category
Object type
Parts
This object consists of 4 parts.

  • Fragment
  • Fragment
  • Panel
  • Fragment
TitleAdoration of the Magi (generic title)
Materials and techniques
Carved, painted and gilt alabaster
Brief description
Alabaster panel and associated fragments depicting the Adoration of the Magi. English, second half of 15th century.
Style
Credit line
Given by Dr W. L. Hildburgh FSA
Object history
Formerly in the Musée Van Stolk. Acquired by Dr W. L. Hildburgh in Paris. On loan from him to the Museum since 1931. Given by W. L. Hildburgh in 1946.
Summary
The Virgin Mary holding the baby Jesus is shown reclining under a canopy. Joseph is seated below holding his staff in his left hand and resting his head on his right. Next to him are the heads of the Ox and Ass. In the background the Magi are shown presenting gifts to Jesus.

The Gospel of Matthew records how three wise men or Magi came from the East to present gold, frankincense and myrrh to the infant Christ, guided by a miraculous star.

The upper part of the panel is badly broken.
Bibliographic reference
Cheetham, Francis. English Medieval Alabasters. Oxford: Phaidon-Christie's Limited, 1984. p. 182 (cat. 109), ill. ISBN 0-7148-8014-0
Collection
Accession number
A.181:1 to 4-1946

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Record createdDecember 9, 2002
Record URL
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