The Adoration of the Magi 

Domenico Campagnola made this ink drawing called "The Adoration of the Magi" in the 16th century. Campagnola creates a densely populated scene, filled with figures and animals, set against a lush landscape. The subject, the adoration of the Christ Child by the Three Kings, was very popular in the 1500s. In Italy, the story of the Magi was often linked to wealth, power, and international connections. The kings were seen as representatives of different parts of the world, bringing their treasures to honor Christ. The composition highlights the significance of ceremony and gift-giving within Italian culture. The drawing reflects the religious devotion of the time, but also the social and political values of the society that produced it. As art historians, we might research the patronage of art during this period, the role of religious orders, and the symbolism of the gifts. We use these resources to more fully understand the cultural context of the drawing.