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The Nativity with Donors and Saints Jerome and Leonard, ca. 1510–15
Gerard David (Netherlandish, born ca. 1455, died 1523)
Oil on canvas, transferred from wood; Central panel 35 1/2 x 28 in. (90.2 x 71.1 cm); each wing 35 1/2 x 12 3/8 in. (90.2 x 31.4 cm)
The Jules Bache Collection, 1949 (49.7.20a–c)

In a characteristically Netherlandish treatment of the Nativity, David focuses our attention on the mystery of the Incarnation—that is, Christ's birth and sacrifice for the redemption of mankind. The sheaf of grain parallel to the manger refers to John 6:41: "I am the bread which came down from Heaven." Woodland scenes, originally on the reverse of the wings, are now in the Mauritshuis, The Hague.

Open full-size and alternate view(s)



    • The Nativity with Donors and Saints Jerome and Leonard, ca. 1510–15
    Gerard David (Netherlandish, born ca. 1455, died 1523)
    Oil on canvas, transferred from wood; Central panel 35 1/2 x 28 in. (90.2 x 71.1 cm); each wing 35 1/2 x 12 3/8 in. (90.2 x 31.4 cm)
    The Jules Bache Collection, 1949 (49.7.20a–c)

    Detail of left wing showing Saint Jerome and a male donor.

    Detail of right wing showing Saint Leonard and a female donor.