The Adoration of the Magi (oil)

Dürer's Adoration of the Magi has an unusual setting – an impromptu stable offering shelter to the ox and ass erected against one of many ruins and arches. The air seems crisp.

The magi are richly clothed and their offerings impressive. The baby boy accepts a chest of gold from the oldest of the three. On the right, a servant appears to be taking more gifts from a bag. Joseph is missing.

Dürer's Adoration was an altar-piece, commissioned by Friedrich III for the Schlosskirche at Wittenberg. This king, who came to be known as Frederick the Wise, later acted as patron to Martin Luther.