Skip to main content

Main Building

The Adoration of the Christ Child

Late 15th century
Biagio d'Antonio da Firenze (Italian (active Florence, Rome, and Faenza), documented 1476–1504)

The Virgin adoring the Christ Child immediately after birth was one of the most depicted themes in Renaissance Florentine art of the 1400s, particularly in paintings like this one, which were made for private homes. In the upper left background is a view of the walled city of Florence in which the cupola of its famed cathedral is particularly prominent. However, the artist combined real and invented views: the bridge going over the river is a fantasy.

The Virgin's actions following Christ's birth are described in the thirteenth-century text The Meditations on the Life of Christ: "She knelt to adore him and render thanks to God . . . Joseph adored him likewise." The subject became popular in Italian art after Saint Bridget of Sweden (1302–1373) had a similar vision of the Nativity while on a pilgrimage to Bethlehem.

Object Details

We are always open to learning more about our collections and updating the website. Does this record contain inaccurate information or language that you feel we should improve or change? Contact us here.

Please note that this particular artwork might not be on view when you visit. Don’t worry—we have plenty of exhibitions for you to explore.


Main Building