The artwork titled “Oberried Altarpiece, right interior wing – The Birth of Christ” was painted by Hans Holbein the Younger in 1522 in Germany. It is a tempera painting on wood, created during the Northern Renaissance period. This religious painting measures 230 by 109 cm.
The artwork vividly portrays the birth of Christ, a central narrative in Christian theology. At the focal point of the scene, the infant Jesus lies in a manger, bathed in gentle light. The Virgin Mary and St. Joseph are depicted in devotional postures, emphasizing their reverence and care for the newborn. In the background, architectural elements frame the scene, suggesting a setting of grandeur and divinity. The sky above is dark, dotted with stars, creating a celestial atmosphere. To the left, a shepherd kneels in adoration, representing the humble witnesses of this divine event. The lower section of the painting includes a group of figures dressed in contemporary clothing of the time, possibly patrons or figures significant to the church or community associated with the altarpiece. The artwork is a testament to Holbein’s mastery in depicting religious themes with intricate detail and emotional depth.
