The Adoration of the Magi

Leonardo seems to have been of the opinion that the birth of the infant created a caesura in history – a new dawn due to the coming of the Messiah.

Central to the symmetrical positioning are the Magi, adoring the Infant. They are surrounded by an unknowing crowd.

By its innovative composition the roles of the Magi are made equal – all of them can show their emotions simultaneously. Before, the Magi were usually portrayed lined up.

Leonardo never completed this painting. He left Florence for Milan in 1482 for unknown reasons. The Convent of the San Donato agli Scopeti then commissioned an Adoration to Filippino Lippi.