The Nativity 

Gerard van Honthorst made this oil on canvas painting, The Nativity, sometime in the 17th century. The work emphasizes the radiance of the infant Jesus, a common feature of religious art from the period, which also gives the picture its other title, Adoration of the Christ Child. Honthorst was Dutch, and like many artists of his time, was deeply influenced by the Italian master Caravaggio. The Italian Baroque master’s style, characterized by dramatic contrasts of light and dark, known as tenebrism, was widely influential. We can see that influence here. Dutch artists had their own take on that style, however. Honthorst's work was known for its almost theatrical use of light, often to create dramatic and emotionally charged scenes. The choice to portray the scene at night is typical for nativity scenes, but Honthorst adds something unique. The light emanates from the baby himself. It is a spiritual light, and also has the effect of emphasizing the humanity of Mary and Joseph as they gaze down at the child. Art history is a constant process of reassessment. The work of scholars who study the institutional and cultural context of art helps us to understand its place in the world.