Flemish school; first third of the 17th century.

Flemish school; first third of the 17th century.
"The Adoration of the Magi".
Oil on copper.
Measurements: 48 x 42 cm; 69 x 63 cm (frame).
This oil painting on copper, belonging to the Flemish School of the first third of the 17th century, represents the scene of the Adoration of the Magi, a central theme in Christian iconography. The composition is marked by a rich visual narrative and detailed technical work characteristic of the Flemish tradition.
At the center of the work, the Virgin Mary holds the Christ Child on her lap, wrapped in a red and blue mantle, symbols of her divinity and maternity. Around her, the Magi, dressed in sumptuous robes, present their offerings of gold, frankincense and myrrh. The representation of the old king stands out, kneeling and in a gesture of devotion, while the dark-skinned king, symbol of the universality of Christianity, holds his gift with reverence. The scene is framed in an architectural environment in ruins, evocation of the pagan world that Christ comes to renew. In the background, a retinue of servants, camels and horsemen reinforce the sense of movement and spatial depth.
The Adoration of the Magi is a recurring motif in Christian art, based on the account in the Gospel of Matthew (2:1-12). It symbolizes the recognition of Jesus as the King and Savior of the world, not only by the Jews, but also by the Gentiles, represented in the diversity of the Magi. During the Baroque and late Renaissance, this theme acquired great relevance, as it allowed artists to deploy a rich chromatic palette and exhibit their mastery in the representation of fabrics, jewels and exotic characters.
The Flemish School, with its meticulous precision and mastery of chiaroscuro, managed to capture this episode with an emotional intensity and theatricality that sought to move the viewer. The use of copper as a support contributed to the luminosity and sharpness of the details, making this work an outstanding example of the technical refinement of 17th century Flemish painting.