The Magi
In most parts of the world, today is the traditional date for Epiphany, a feast which celebrates the visit of the Magi.
These mysterious figures from the East (about whom little is known) have long been the subject of stories, legends and speculation. Early on they were looked upon as royal figures. This may have been suggested by Psalm 72: The kings of Arabia and Sheba shall bring tribute; all kings shall pay him homage.
It is not known how many Magi there were. The three gifts gave rise to the number that has been commonly used. Some medieval Eastern lists have as many as 12.
Various names were assigned to them. The names usually given go back to perhaps the sixth century. A century or two later an unknown writer provides a description of them Magi were the ones who gave gifts to the Lord. The first is said to have been Melchior, an old man with white hair and a long beard The second, Caspar by name, young and beardless, and ruddy complexioned The third, black-skinned and heavily bearded, name Balthasar
This description has influenced artists every since.