Attributed to the Master of the Twelve Apostles
Around 1530
Oil paint on wood
40.2 x 42.6 cm
Although the subject of this painting is the celebration of Christ’s birth, the references are largely to his death. The white cloth on which he sleeps echoes the shroud in which he will be buried. The lamb carried by the shepherd in the distance alludes to Christ’s sacrifice. The cross itself, surrounded by angels, is visible in the orange cloud above.