The Adoration of the Shepherds
A master in the Antwerp painters' guild since 1549, Coffermans was not interested in the Italianate mannerist style of his own time, but took his inspiration primarily from the works of artists active two or three generations before him. His rendition of this subject is decidedly traditional. The arrangement of the crowded scene, with the angel’s annunciation to the shepherds depicted in the background, ultimately derives from works by Antwerp artists, such as the Master of Frankfurt.
The signature MARCEL.HELMON.FE[CIT] in the lower right corner suggests that the painter came from the Brabantine city of Helmond.
The signature MARCEL.HELMON.FE[CIT] in the lower right corner suggests that the painter came from the Brabantine city of Helmond.
Artwork Details
- Title: The Adoration of the Shepherds
- Artist: Marcellus Coffermans (Netherlandish, active 1549–70)
- Date: ca. 1550
- Medium: Oil on wood
- Dimensions: 8 1/8 x 5 1/2 in. (20.6 x 14 cm)
- Classification: Paintings
- Credit Line: Gift of J. Pierpont Morgan, 1917
- Object Number: 17.190.3
- Curatorial Department: European Paintings
More Artwork
A slider containing 5 items.
Press the down key to skip to the last item.
Press the down key to skip to the last item.
Quinten Massys
1526
Hans Memling
ca. 1465–70
Quinten Massys
ca. 1520
Gerard David
ca. 1510–15
Hans Memling
ca. 1470
Related Content
Publications
Books, guides, and catalogues published by The Met.
Free to download
Research Resources
The Met provides unparalleled resources for research and welcomes an international community of students and scholars. The Met's Open Access API is where creators and researchers can connect to the The Met collection. Open Access data and public domain images are available for unrestricted commercial and noncommercial use without permission or fee.
To request images under copyright and other restrictions, please use this Image Request form.
Feedback
We continue to research and examine historical and cultural context for objects in The Met collection. If you have comments or questions about this object record, please complete and submit this form. The Museum looks forward to receiving your comments.