Lorenzo Monaco, The Nativity, c. 1406-1410, tempera on wood, gold ground, Robert Lehman Collection, 1975, Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York
Title: The Nativity
Artist: Lorenzo Monaco (ca. 1370-1425 (?)
According to the website of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Nativity by 15th century artist Lorenzo Monaco was probably part of a larger altarpiece of the Annunciation now at the Galleria dell’Accademia in Florence. Except for the touches of gold on the haloes of the Holy Family, the illumination of light, and the border decoration, Monaco focuses on the humbleness of the manger. For the only companions of Mary, Jospeh, and the infant Jesus (who is lies naked on the hard ground), are an ox and donkey. Yet, they are also sharing in this special event, aware of the divinity of the moment. Although soon, they will be joined by the shepherds in the background, who appear overcome by the angel’s message.
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