Adoration of the Magi

Gentile da Fabriano painted the Adoration of the Magi in 1423 for the wealthy Florentine Palla Strozzi. This altarpiece represents the pinnacle of International Gothic style, with gold leaf, elaborate costumes, exotic animals, and detailed decorative patterns filling every surface.

The three Magi arrive with their retinue of horses, camels, monkeys, and leopards. Gold dominates the composition: gilded halos, gold-brocade robes, a golden sky. The procession winds from the upper arches down to the humble stable where the Christ child sits. The predella panels show the journey to Bethlehem, the Nativity, and the Flight into Egypt.

The Uffizi displays this altarpiece in its original elaborate frame. It represents the final flowering of medieval luxury before Renaissance naturalism transformed Florentine art.