![The Adoration of the Magi [early 1560s] by Jacopo da Ponte, called Bassano (about 1510–1592)](barbimgs/medbassano.jpg)
Pictures of the Month | December 2009
Picture of the Month
December 2009
The Adoration of the Magi
[early 1560s] by Jacopo da Ponte, called Bassano (about 1510–1592)
In the last wintery month of 2009, what better painting to kindle that Christmas glow than this magnificent scene of awe and celebration?
Jacopo da Ponte (called Bassano) was one of Venice’s leading 16th-century painters. This work is an exquisite example of his style in the 1560s, presenting the time-honoured image of Joseph, Mary and their new son, surrounded by three Magi with an entourage of servants. Set, not in a traditional stable, but outside amongst an eclectic tumble of antique ruins, this painting illustrates a Renaissance trend to depict the holy birth amidst the remains of a classical temple to symbolize paganism’s decay. While the influence of contemporaries, such as Tintoretto (1518–94) and Titian (about 1488/90–1576) is evident — the composition and each figure’s individuality are unique.
Bassano trained in Venice in the 1530s, but worked all his life in his native town, a small settlement northwest of Venice called Bassano del Grappa (from which his name is derived). His father, Francesco (about 1475–1539), was also an artist, and Bassano took over the family workshop in the 1540s. Despite the distance from Venice, his work, founded on direct observation and rustic naturalism, attracted strong patronage from wealthy Venetian collectors. Bassano cultivated a genre of biblical scenes set in pastoral landscapes, the religious narratives being an excuse for painting bucolic views filled with peasants, everyday objects and animals. He was praised for his ability to represent the latter, and dogs were frequently included. Providing nostalgic countryside images, these small-scale canvases were ideally suited to domestic urban tastes. Themes were often repeated — with the Adoration of the Magi and Adoration of the Shepherds being particularly popular.
With all the hectic activity that accompanies Christmas, take a moment to relax and enjoy this vibrant masterpiece. Note the sumptuous brushwork and representation of texture: crumpled velvet; shimmering silk; rough cotton; gleaming metal; hair and fur; delicate foliage and hard rock. Let your eyes drink in the iridescent palette of ruddy browns, emerald greens, flashing vermilion, deep-sea blues, golden ochres, opulent violet and spicy oranges — all evidence of the Venetian flare for rich colours and dramatic lighting. Underlain with an aura of peaceful reverence, this work encourages a quiet inner calm at this festive, busy time in the calendar.
May we wish you a wonderful Christmas and a joyful New Year!
Kathryn Murray, Education Assistant
| What is your favourite work of art in the Barber Institute galleries? Drop us a line at info@barber.org.uk and let us know, and we could feature your choice in a future Picture of the Month. |