A Limoges enamel plaque with the Adoration of the Magi
Slightly convex plaque in a gilt metal surround. Frame H 22.3, W 18.3 cm.
First half 16th C.
This composition is known to have been enamelled twice by the Master of the Triptych of Orléans. The Master of the Large Foreheads is thought to have worked in his studio before founding his own workshop. An identical plaque in an identical surround, attributed to the workshop of the Master of the High Foreheads, is housed in the Frick Collection in New York, acc. no. 1916.4.04. Characteristic of his style are the small eyes and the swollen eyelids, as well as the high round foreheads from which he derives this notname. The plaque presented here depicts almost the exact same scene with similar but not identical facial features, so that it can be assumed that the work is attributable to a painter from the artist's circle.
The composition is inspired by a late 15th century print by the Dutch master IAM, in which the adoration takes place in front of ruins reminiscent of Solomon's temple, which is said to have been destroyed at the birth of Christ.
Provenance
Belgian collection.
Literature
Cf. Weinhold, Maleremail aus Limoges im Grünen Gewölbe, Munich-Berlin-Dresden 2008, cat. no. 1, two plaques from a Passion cylcle with similar architectural backgrounds attributed to the Master of Orléans.