Bosch's Art

Paper Summary:

Two paintings by Hieronymus Bosch are compared and analyzed in this paper. The similarities and contrasts of "Epiphany" (approx. 1490) and "Adoration of the Magi" (1510) are shown. Although both depict the birth of Jesus Christ, the paper shows how the paintings differ in style and message. The author also touches on what was considered a third 'adoration' painting by Bosch, but which turned out to be a forgery.

From the Paper:

"In the earliest version of the adoration of the Magi, known as the "Epiphany" presumed to date anywhere from approximately 1480-1490, and the first treatment of the subject unquestionably attributed to Bosch, the painting has a personal and almost friendly quality to it. This painting, an oil on a panel, was evidently not commissioned by any patron. Unlike many paintings of the period, it gives, rather than a clear view of Mary presented as the queen of heaven, a vision of the young girl sitting in a tiny, old and dilapidated stable. Two wise men are standing, one sitting with his gift at his feat. The wise men appear to be in conversation, but not necessarily about the Christ child. They hold their gifts casually, as kings might, causal of valuable objects. Even the man sitting in reverence could be seen as showing his fascination with Christ's youth, rather than with Christ's divinity. The baby Christ Child almost appears vulnerable in relationship to the Magi in this picture. He has no halo, he is naked and unswaddled. Yet Christ reaches out to the wise man, at his mother's like a friendly baby who is directly interested the affairs of all that come to him."

More papers on Bosch's Art:

• Analytical Essay # 145077 : "Art in Renaissance Transformation"
• Essay # 50609 : "Italian High Renaissance and North European Art"
• Cause and Effect Essay # 116304 : "Impact of Black Death on Art"

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