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Title
The Birth of Christ
Datec.1600
MediumTempera on panel
Dimensions
31.5 x 25 cm
Credit LinePurchased, 1968
Object numberNGI.1845
Label TextIcons depicting multiple scenes from the birth of Christ were produced in Russia during the 16th century. They derived from much earlier Byzantine manuscripts. Here the Christ Child is shown in a cave, reflecting his humble birth and prefiguring his burial. Surrounding this central scene are a variety of episodes: the Three Kings following the star to Bethlehem; the annunciation to the shepherds; the Three Kings presenting their gifts; Herod’s soldiers assembling to massacre the Innocents; and the Flight into Egypt.