Adoration of the Magi

Artist Andrew Walker (Aberdeen, Scotland, born 1959)

Date1984 - 1985

Mediumoil on canvas

ClassificationsPaintings And Drawings

DimensionsOverall: Height: 190.5 cm, Width: 157.5 cm
Frame: Height: 191.1 cm, Width: 159 cm

AcquisitionPresented in 1989 by the Contemporary Art Society.

LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub

Object numberABDAG008399

Keywords

Male

About MeThe presentation of gifts by the Three Wise Men [or Magi] is an image which has been depicted by Christian artists since the Middle ages. Andrew Walker's painting seems on first inspection to be an extremely modern interpretation of this very familiar event. Joseph and Mary stand to the right. They are simply dressed in plain robes. There is no attempt made to make the couple seem of 'olden days' - they are of the present, with modern hairstyles, and a relaxed familiarity in their gestures. Colours are bold, with the canvas covered in broad expanses or rich, warm tones.

The Christ Child seems tiny in comparison to the adult figures. Mary holds Him out - presenting Him like a precious gift to the nearest Magus, who echoes this gesture with the presentation of his own gift to Jesus, a movement emphasised by the flow of his curved hands, and those above of the oldest Magus, Caspar.