Adoration of the Shepherds

Adoration of the Shepherds is a 1660 painting by Jan Steen. It is housed in the Museum Bredius. The painting measures 0.41 meters in width and 0.315 meters in height.

The artwork depicts the Nativity scene, focusing on the adoration of the shepherds. The scene is set in a rustic stable, dimly lit, with a group of shepherds gathered around the manger where Mary, Joseph, and the infant Jesus are situated. Mary is shown holding the baby Jesus. Several other figures, including women and older men, are present, some appearing to observe the holy family, others seemingly engaged in their own activities within the stable. The overall mood is one of quiet reverence and humble observation. The style is characteristic of Dutch Golden Age painting, with attention to detail in the figures' clothing and the setting's textures. The use of light and shadow creates a sense of depth and intimacy within the scene.