La Adoración de los Reyes (The Adoration of the Kings)

Baltasar de Echave Orio's La Adoración de los Reyes is much more than the scene from the Bible in which the Three Magi bring gifts to the infant Jesus. For me, the painting is a recognition of the authority of God amongst different peoples, cultures and social positions. The Magi are traditionally recognised as wise men or rulers who have come from far away to prostrate themselves before Christ indicating that knowledge, wealth and politics from the world are brought to their knees before the divine. The composition also shows an interesting cultural exchange. The subject matter was inspired by Christian scripture, and the visual language strongly influenced by European Renaissance and Mannerist styles, was created in colonial Mexico. Where this is done, one can see a symbolic cross-over from the religious culture of Europe and the emerging art identity of New Spain. The picture painting consequently can be interpreted as a devotional image as well as the documentation of the adaptation and modifications of European art forms in a colonial context. The elongated figures, dramatic poses and gestures create a sense of ceremony and spiritual drama. However, although the figures are in motion, they are still serene, giving the scene a sense of respect. There is a dramatic contrast between the splendor of the Magi and the poverty of the infant Christ which is worth reflecting upon: the material richness and worldly station are looked upon as less significant than spiritual recognition and faith. The concept of Transitions and Travels is what stands out. The Magi are on the journey of seeking to come to know and when they arrive, seeking becomes knowing. Their act of kneeling can be seen as a cession of certainty, power and privilege to something greater than themselves.