The Nativity 1492

"The Nativity" by Domenico Ghirlandaio, painted in 1492, depicts the traditional Christian scene of the birth of Jesus. The painting showcases the artist's mastery of detail and realism, portraying the figures with naturalism and the landscape with a serene beauty. Saint Joseph sits to the left, holding a staff, while the Virgin Mary kneels in prayer, her gaze fixed on the newborn Christ child. The composition emphasizes the intimate moment of the Nativity, while the distant landscape adds a sense of depth and tranquility. This artwork is a prime example of the Early Renaissance style, characterized by its attention to naturalism, perspective, and composition. It is currently housed at the Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge, UK.