Adorazione dei Magi

The "Adoration of the Magi",  or "Adoration dei Magi" in Italian, is a term traditionally applied to the painting of the Nativity of Jesus with the three "Magi" or wisemen adoring and bestowing the child with gifts. The master naturalist painter, Giotto painted many examples of this subject. The fresco spotlighted in this post was started around 1304 and was completed around 1306. It is a portion of the cycle of frescoes in the Scrovegni Chapel, which is considered one of Giotto's most renowned works.

The scene features Mary, dressed in a red robe edged with gold and a cloak of blue that is almost completely worn away, offering the child Jesus to be adored by the Magi. The draping of cloth, the emotion on the faces of the figures, and the three-dimensionality of the painting showcase Giotto's naturalistic techniques. The Magi can be distinguished by their red shoes, a symbol of royalty and the halos around their heads. The different positions of the Magi showcase the naturalistic style of the painting. One is kneeling and another displays an expression of wonderment at Christ. This is a far cry from the strict and regulated style of Byzantium. The two camels behind the Magi are depicted with extreme detail and care. Behind Mary, Joseph and two angels stand; one of whom is located at the beam of the hut with the beam covering her face, highlighting the naturalism of this painting. A silent dialogue takes place between the faces of those present and they all look very natural and life-like. One of the most interesting components of this fresco is the form of the Star of Bethlehem. It is drawn as a comet shooting through the sky and some theorize that Giotto was inspired to paint this way because of the appearance of Halley's Comet in 1301. 

Sources:

http://www.wikiart.org/en/giotto/adoration-of-the-magi-1306

https://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adorazione_dei_Magi_(Giotto)

Photo:

http://www.wikiart.org/en/giotto/adoration-of-the-magi-1306