Icon of the Nativity of Christ — Narrative Scene on Aged Wood

This hagiography depicts the Nativity of Christ, celebrated by the Orthodox Church on December 25. The scene recalls the journey of Joseph and the pregnant Mary to Bethlehem for the census, ordered by Emperor Augustus, and their inability to find shelter other than a humble cave.

It was there that the Virgin gave birth to the Christ Child, wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger. The icon follows the traditional elements of this scene: the Virgin inclined toward the swaddled Child, along with the ox and donkey keeping watch at his side, following classic Byzantine Nativity iconography.

Hand-painted on aged wood with natural, irregular contours, this hagiography pairs a colored background with a full narrative composition, in a 45 x 26 cm format. Unlike the bust portraits, this "parastasis" (narrative scene) allows several figures and elements to appear within a single painting.

Since that night, according to Christian tradition, the faithful have sung the hymn: "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men." This icon invites a visual return to this founding moment of the Christian faith.

Like every hand-painted hagiography, this piece is one of a kind. It suits the Christmas season especially well, but also finds a place year-round in a prayer corner or place of worship.

Given to mark Christmas, a baptism, or simply to enrich a collection of religious items, this icon of the Nativity combines biblical narrative with traditional iconographic craftsmanship.