WOODEN WINE TASTING
VESSEL WITH SILVER FRAME
BACKGROUND DECORATED
WITH THE THREE WISE MEN
Engraving on the back "Gaspard Vallée Tourneur 1770”. Snake handle stamped with the hallmark of Master Goldsmith with initial "P" under blazon.
(France, 18th c.)
Magos Foundation Collection
Theologian Origen of Alexandria (3rd century), nicknamed the father of biblical exegesis, was the first to set the number of Magi at three. His writings would later inspire great Western theologians, including Saint Ambrose of Milan (4th century), who was the first to speak publicly about the number of three for the Magi.