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The Nativity

Workshop of Master of the Aachen Madonna

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of a nativity scene. The image depicts a traditional biblical nativity scene with a baby lying in a manger surrounded by a humble wooden structure resembling a stable. There is a figure kneeling beside the baby and another figure standing behind. Above the stable, two small animals are peering through an opening. A star shines in the sky, and there is an angel with green and red wings present. The use of red, green, and earthy tones, along with linear patterns, creates a quaint and sacred atmosphere.

Artwork Details

Date
c. 1480
Medium
metalcut, hand-colored in green, red, and yellow on laid paper
Dimensions
2716 × 3618 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original
Palette