Adoration of the Kings

painting by Sandro Botticelli

Also known as: “Adoration of the Magi”

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July 21, 2026

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The Adoration of the Kings (also known as Adoration of the Magi) is a tondo painting by Sandro Botticelli, created around 1470–1475. This artwork is a significant example of Botticelli's mastery of the circular format, where he skillfully harmonized figures within the round composition. The painting depicts the biblical scene of the Magi visiting the infant Jesus, a subject that Botticelli rendered with his characteristic linear grace and attention to detail. This work is notable for its inclusion of portraits of the Medici family members as the Magi, reflecting their patronage of the artist and their influence in Florence. The painting showcases Botticelli's ability to integrate religious narrative with contemporary Florentine society.12

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Sandro Botticelli
Devotional paintings
…this format, beginning with the Adoration of the Kings (c. 1470–75; also called Adoration of the Magi). Before Botticelli, tondi had been conceived essentially as oblong scenes, but Botticelli suppressed all superfluity of detail in them and became adept at harmonizing his figures with the circular form. His complete mastery…
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…this format, beginning with the Adoration of the Kings (c. 1470–75; also called Adoration of the Magi). Before Botticelli, tondi had been conceived essentially as oblong scenes, but Botticelli suppressed all superfluity of detail in them and became adept at harmonizing his figures with the circular form. His complete mastery…
Read More