Sellaio, Jacopo del – De aanbidding van het kind, 1485-1520 Rijksmuseum: part 3

The composition presents a scene unfolding within and around a rustic structure, likely intended as a stable or shelter. A central group dominates the foreground: a bearded man in rich robes kneels before a swaddled infant lying on a cloth. Beside him stands a woman with long hair, her hands raised in what appears to be an act of reverence or presentation. She is encircled by a halo, signifying her sanctity.
Several figures populate the scene. Two men, dressed in somber attire and exhibiting expressions of solemnity, are positioned near the left edge, their gestures suggesting adoration or supplication. A small child, also adorned in red robes, kneels close to the infant, mirroring the posture of the man. To the right, a winged figure hovers above, adding an ethereal quality to the moment.
The background is rendered with a softer focus, depicting a landscape populated by additional figures and animals – sheep, goats, and what appear to be shepherds – suggesting a pastoral setting. The distant mountains provide depth and establish a sense of vastness beyond the immediate scene.
A notable aspect of the work is its use of light. It seems to emanate from an unseen source, illuminating the central figures while casting portions of the structure into shadow. This contrast enhances the drama and directs attention towards the core narrative elements. The color palette is restrained, with earthy tones dominating the composition, punctuated by the vibrant red of the childrens garments and the gold accents in the man’s robes.
The arrangement of the figures suggests a hierarchical order: the woman stands as the focal point, while the kneeling man embodies humility and devotion. The inclusion of the onlookers reinforces the significance of the event being depicted – a moment of profound spiritual import witnessed by both earthly observers and celestial beings. The overall effect is one of quiet contemplation and reverence, inviting viewers to share in the solemnity of the occasion.