Great paintings!
The most famous artist in Italy at the beginning of the 15th c., Gentile da Fabriano was an influential exponent of the International Gothic style, rich in refined decorative elegance, lavish use of gold and bright colors.
This painting (#2) is festive and filled with an elegant grace. The garments are rich, colorful, detailed. The entire story of the Epiphany is in a continuous narrative, from the top of the frame is the Annunciation, then comes the cavalcade of the Magi, guided by the star, winding its way to Herod’s palace and then descending to Bethlehem and the stable. The road is lined with pomegranate and olive trees. The pomegranate is the decoration also on Caspar’s black robe. The older Magus is prostrated at Mary’s feet, kissing the feet of the infant Jesus. Sweet is the way the baby touches the head of the old Magus in blessing. There is a man holding a falcon behind the young Magus, he possibly is a member of the Strozzi family and patron of the work. The Italian word for falconer was once strozziere but today we simply say falconiere.
The exotic animals emphasizes the exotic origins of the three kings and their entourage. Some scholars opined that the Magi are symbols of the three ages of mankind and represent the world. In the predella above which is written in latin “Work by Gentile da Fabriano, 1423 Month of May” are the episode of the Nativity, the Flight to Egypt and the Presentation to the Temple.
A thousand thanks, Alba. You have plumbed its depths for us. Once we see it through your eyes, it is astonishing.