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Notes
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This is the central panel of Romanino’s high altarpiece for S. Alessandro in Brescia. The high altar was the responsibility of the Confraternity of Corpus Christi – a lay brotherhood which venerated the body of Christ – so this depiction of Christ was of central importance. It would have been placed directly above the tabernacle in which the Eucharist was kept. The church was dedicated to Saint Alexander, whose relics were kept there, and to the Virgin Mary, mother of God, so she also has a prominent position. Her mantle is embroidered with gold fleur-de-lis ornaments, the symbol of Saint Alexander. Mary and her husband Joseph kneel in adoration before the infant Christ. The scene is watched by the ox and donkey and by a throng of rejoicing baby angels.
Title
The Nativity
Date
about 1524
Medium
Oil on wood
Measurements
H 265 x W 117.2 cm
Accession number
NG297.1
Acquisition method
Bought, 1857
Work type
Painting
