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The Nativity

Gerard David Netherlandish
early 1480s
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 636
This painting, which most likely was intended as a single, private devotional panel, combines the depiction of the Nativity and the Adoration of the Shepherds as described in both biblical and mystical literature. It probably dates from the early 1480s, before David established himself in Bruges. The homely and naive figure types and the geometric simplification of the heads of the Virgin and angels reflect models the artist knew from his early training in the Northern Netherlands. Already present is the characteristic combination of serene landscape, simple architectural setting, and meditative figures that would contribute to the painter’s popularity.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: The Nativity
  • Artist: Gerard David (Netherlandish, Oudewater ca. 1455–1523 Bruges)
  • Date: early 1480s
  • Medium: Oil on wood
  • Dimensions: Overall 18 3/4 x 13 1/2 in. (47.6 x 34.3 cm), painted surface 18 1/2 x 13 3/8 in. (47 x 34 cm)
  • Classification: Paintings
  • Credit Line: The Friedsam Collection, Bequest of Michael Friedsam, 1931
  • Object Number: 32.100.40a
  • Curatorial Department: European Paintings

More Artwork

More Artwork
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Studies of ten (?) heads and two ears (recto); Studies of three figures and a head (verso), Gerard David Netherlandish, Metalpoint on prepared paper; verso: black chalk
Studies of ten (?) heads and two ears (recto); Studies of three figures and a head (verso)
Gerard David
ca. 1498
Virgin and Child, Gerard David Netherlandish, Oil on oak panel, Netherlandish
Virgin and Child
Gerard David
1490–1523
The Annunciation, Gerard David Netherlandish, Tempera on parchment
The Annunciation
Gerard David
ca. 1510
Holy Face, Gerard David Netherlandish, Tempera and gold leaf on parchment that has been trimmed and laid down on thin walnut
Holy Face
Gerard David
ca. 1485–90
Archangel Gabriel; The Virgin Annunciate, Gerard David Netherlandish, Oil on oak panel
Archangel Gabriel; The Virgin Annunciate
Gerard David
ca. 1510

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