German , 17th century Lot n° 22

It is an unusual representation of the three wise men, extracted from a narrative context. They present themselves as a group to the viewer and look at the star of Bethlehem, which shows them the way to the newborn king of the Jews. They carry the gifts for him in their hands. The oldest of them Caspar points to the star. Caspar and Melchior wear ermine coats and Caspar one turban. Balthasar, who is traditionally portrayed as black, wears a brocade coat over a caftan. The kings represent the continents of Asia, Europe and Africa on the one hand, and also the ages on the other. 52 x 38 cm Oil on canvas