The Birth of Christ - Sandro Botticelli (c. 11445 - 1510)

“Christian iconography expresses in images the same Gospel message that Scripture communicates by words. Image and word illuminate each other.” (CCC 1160)

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The Birth of Christ - Sandro Botticelli (1500)

Known as the Mystical Nativity, this portrays Mary, the ox and the donkey watching over Jesus while Joseph is sleeping.  The three men in long gowns kneeling to the left of the stable are the Maji.  The shepherds are kneeling to the right. The angels carry olive branches symbolizing peace and the heavens are opened up to the stable below.  In the corners demons can be seen running from the scene.  

Luke 2: 6 - 7 

While they were there, the time came for her to have her child, and she gave birth to her firstborn son.  She wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. 

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Picture Source - Public Domain

The Role of Religious Art in Faith Formation - Month of December 2019 Index

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