Da Vinci, Adorazione, 1481, Uffizi

Speranza


Although unfinished, Da Vinci's "Adoration of the Magi" is the most revealing of his paintings, because of the importance of its composition.

In it Leonardo departed from the traditional placing of the figures, and grouped them in a circle at the feet of Jesus with a striking vigour which for him certainly had a symbolic value.

The strange scenery with its rocks, trees and ruins plays a primordial part.

Instead of serving simply as a background, the scenery links the varied elements of the painting and contributes to their fusion.

This fusion is also obtained by the 'sfumato' or stumped drawing of the outlines, which is one of Leonardo's great innovations.

It is a subtle use of 'chiaroscuro' which renders the vibration of light and creates an unexpected poetry.