The Adoration of the Shepherds

1615

Hendrik Goltzius

Associated Names
Hendrick Goltzius

Artist, Dutch, 1558 - 1617

Jacob Matham

Publisher, Dutch, 1571 - 1631

This is a drawing of a group of figures gathered around a central object. The drawing features a detailed study of expressions and interactions, with the focus on a candle held by an older figure with curly hair and a thick beard. The figures appear to be sharing a moment of contemplation or discussion, looking downward toward outlines of a baby. The background is detailed with inscriptions that add context to the scene. The scene captures an atmosphere of intimacy and focus, and the draftsmanship emphasizes the texture and expressions of the characters involved.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    engraving on laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Gift of the Estate of Leo Steinberg

  • Dimensions

    sheet: 20.2 x 15.4 cm (7 15/16 x 6 1/16 in.); cut within platemark

  • Accession Number

    2011.139.14

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    New Hollstein 1996, no. 14, State v/vi

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

(Christopher Mendez, London, October 1990); Leo Steinberg, New York (1920-2011); Estate of Leo Steinberg, New York; gift to NGA, 2011.

Associated Names

Bibliography

1802

  • Bartsch, Adam. Le peintre graveur. 21 vols. Vienna, 1802-1821: Adam. Le peintre graveur. 21 vols. Vienna: J.V. Degen, 1802-1821: no. 21.

1921

  • Hirschmann, Otto. Verzeichnis des graphischen Werks von Hendrick Goltzius (1558-1617) mit Benutzung der durch E.W. Moest hinterlassenen Notizen zusammengestellt. Leipzig: Verlag von Klinkhardt und Biermann, 1921. Reprint. Braunschweig: Klinkhardt &Bie: no. 15 iv/v

1993

  • The New Hollstein Dutch & Flemish Etchings, Engravings and Woodcuts, 1450-1700. Rotterdam: Sound & Vision Interactive, 1996-: no. 14, v/vi.

Inscriptions

upper center in plate: Cum privil. Sa. Cae. Mts / HGoltzius Fecit / I. Matham excud. / 1615; by later hand, in brown ink: obit inte operis [not deciphered]

Wikidata ID

Q76558997

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