Art of the Nativity

These days you really have to hunt to find depictions of the birth of Jesus amidst all the trees and wreaths, Santas and reindeer, and ads for things you probably don’t need or really even want. If you do find them, it could be something less than a truly religious experience, e.g. the “Nativity” at the Vatican.

In this weary world there are places that still draw the heart and mind to what this season is about, and a quick internet search will reveal them.  From catholichousehold.com comes a post from 2014 “The Birth of Jesus in Art: 20 Gorgeous Paintings of the Nativity, Magi, and Shepherds.” And a feast for the eyes they are. They come from several different schools of painting over a number of centuries. 

The Magi pictures are interesting because some of the kings have removed their crowns, or they have fallen off, showing how these kings now recognize the true King of Kings. When the shepherds come to adore the child they bring some of their flock with them. In number 15 the lamb looks as though it is dead, and indeed, the slain lamb is often used in art to show the future of the babe.

These paintings are full of contrasts like that: the baby and lamb, light and shadow, color and darkness, Heaven and earth. You don’t have to be an art major to enjoy these works of art. You’ll be able to take away something from each of them. 

Click here to go directly to the post. Enjoy!