The Nativity

Albrecht Altdorfer

National Gallery of Art

The image is an etching showing three main figures. One figure is kneeling on the left, appearing to be in a position of prayer. Another figure is leaning forward towards the center where a small child is surrounded by other figures that seem to be animals. In the background, there is a wooden structure resembling a barn or stable with a large star above it in the sky. The scene is set against a backdrop of cross-hatching creating texture and depth, with archways and architecture visible in a shaded setting.