From the 13^th to the 20^th 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.