The Adoration of the Christ Child (work of art)

Key Ideas about this Work of Art

• Humanism is an attitude that focuses on human interests over religion. This attitude was popular during Titian’s lifetime, and he often represented humanist values in his paintings. Even though this is a biblical scene, none of the figures are depicted wearing a halo. This artistic choice makes the figures look more like ordinary people than divine beings.
• The Renaissance was an era beginning in 14th-century Italy. It is characterized by a renewed interest in ancient Greek and Roman culture. The period lasted over 300 years. Many well-known artists lived during this time, including Leonardo da Vinci and Raphael.
• Titian was an Italian painter during the 16th century. He is best known for his delicate use of color. He lived in Venice, which was a major hub for art and culture during the Renaissance.

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This panel is one of the earliest paintings ascribed by most Titian scholars to Titian. The subject derives from a mystical vision of the Nativity of Christ by Bridget of Sweden (1303–77), an influential nun who recounted seeing the infant Jesus “lying on the earth, naked and glowing in the greatest of neatness.” Titian accordingly depicted Christ’s body as emitting enough light to cause Joseph’s yellow cloak to glow.

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