Anbetung der Könige

The Adoration of the Kings

Tondi (circular paintings) of this subject were popular in the palaces of wealthy Florentines. Botticelli has exploited the format by placing the Virgin and Child at the heart of the composition. Several figures among the kings' courtly retinue are portraits. The shepherds can be seen in the distance. The ruined classical temple represents the old pagan order.