Adoration of the Magi (detail)
by DÜRER, Albrecht, Oil on wood
The seated Virgin is not placed in her conventional position in the centre of the picture, but to the left and depicted in profile. Christ is a playful infant, stretching forward to grasp the golden casket tenderly offered by the kneeling Caspar. The African King Balthazar and the youthful Melchior, who has D�rer’s features with his long hair and beard, stand behind, offering their gifts.