The Adoration of the Shepherds

The Adoration of the Shepherds
El Greco (Doménikos Theotokópoulos)

| 1612–1614 | Oil on canvas
Originally intended for El Greco’s own tomb in the Monastery of Santo Domingo el Antiguo, Toledo | Museo del Prado, Madrid

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The Adoration of the Shepherds is a painting of the traditional subject which was painted during the last year of El Greco's life. The painting is a work which the artist made to hang over his own tomb in the convent of Santo Domingo el Antiguo in Toledo. His signature, in Greek, may be seen in the lower left corner. Extreme distortion of body characterizes the Adoration of the Shepherds like all the last paintings of El Greco. The infant Christ seems to emit a light which plays off the faces of the barefoot shepherds who have gathered to pay homage to his miraculous birth. A rhythmic energy animates the painting, expressed in the dance-like motions of the figures. Striking contrasts between light and dark passages heighten the sense of drama. The group of angels which hovers over the scene may resemble the missing section of The Opening of the Fifth Seal

Many El Greco related beliefs can be inferred from this painting and the description of it. Toledo was clearly a very special site for El Greco, but this notion is further asserted by the fact that he wanted to be buried there and even made a special artwork to hang in the place he was buried. Additionally, the continued idea of the theme of specific recognizable bible scenes being displayed, especially ones involving the heavens and Jesus. Previously in the Vision of Saint John by El Greco you see a figure spiritually, seemingly out of control, reach up to the heavens. This can symbolize many things all potentially pertaining to the city of Toledo including Aspiration toward God, Pride or hubris, Prayer and worship, and Transcendence. All in all, El Greco's visual imagery in his painting shows many beliefs concerning Toledo.

Sammlung : Toledan Art