The Age of Augustus the Birth of Christ 

"The Age of Augustus, the Birth of Christ" is a large-scale historical painting by French Academic artist Jean-Léon Gérôme, portraying the juxtaposition of the Roman Empire at its peak with the humble birth of Christ. The painting depicts Augustus Caesar, the first Roman Emperor, on a throne, surrounded by his court, while the infant Jesus lies in a manger, surrounded by angels and shepherds, beneath a Roman temple. Gérôme's dramatic composition and detailed realism evoke the contrasting forces of power and piety that defined this pivotal moment in history.