The Adoration of the Shepherds

probably 1530/1540

Master of the Adoration of the Shepherds

Associated Names
Master of the Adoration of the Shepherds

Artist, German, active c. 1520/1540

This drawing depicts a historical scene with architectural elements, people, and animals. The scene is bustling with numerous figures engaged in various activities. There are architectural structures with archways and windows, leading into a courtyard. Many figures are gathered, some holding staffs or tools, alongside domestic animals like goats or donkeys. The style is intricate, with fine lines and detailed shading evoking textures of fabric, brick, and stonework. Above, there is a celestial detail like a star and cloud formation with figures. On the right side, there are more architectural elements, including a partially constructed building with wooden scaffolding, and a courtyard with various figures engaged in activities. The composition is detailed and dynamic.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    woodcut printed from two blocks on two sheets (joined) of laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund

  • Dimensions

    image: 32.8 x 51.7 cm (12 15/16 x 20 3/8 in.)
    sheet: 34.1 x 52.2 cm (13 7/16 x 20 9/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1991.98.1

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Hollstein, no. 8, State i/ii (as Jacob Lucius the Elder)


Artwork history & notes

Exhibition History

1992

  • Dürer to Diebenkorn: Recent Acquisitions of Art of Paper, National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C., 1992, no. 6.

Bibliography

1949

  • Hollstein, F.W.H. et al. German engravings, etchings and woodcuts ca. 1400-1700. 8 vols. Amsterdam: Menno Hertzberger, 1954-1868. Dutch and Flemish etchings, engravings and woodcuts, ca. 1450-1700. Vols. I-XV, XVIII, XIX. Amsterdam: Menno Hertzberge

Inscriptions

on the fountain, center right in plate: WS [Stuber or Monogrammist WS]; lower left stamped in black: LVC [Lucas Cranach?]; by later hand, lower left verso in graphite: Lucas Cranach / [undeciphered]

Watermarks

Horn (left sheet) and "P" (right sheet)

Wikidata ID

Q74891080

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