From the 13th to the 20th centuries, the Nativity must be one of the most popular subjects of all with artists, north and south of the Alps, from Giotto, Fra Angelico, Rembrandt to Rubens. Sometimes the scene takes place at night, sometimes during the day. The lecture will explore the many variations of the scene and their possible meanings, depending upon whether midwives, Joseph or shepherds are present, and will analyse the various postures and gestures of the Virgin as she adores the Christ Child.
Lecturer
Lecturer: Clare Ford-Wille
Clare graduated in art from Birkbeck College and lectures widely in the University of London, the National Gallery, the V&A, Morley College, the Art Fund and for the National Trust. Clare has led many art tours overseas and is a Vice president of the London Art History Society.