Artwork
The Nativity
The Nativity is a tempera painting by the Early Renaissance artist Pietro Perugino. It dates from 1502 and is held in the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago.
About this work
Overview
The Nativity is a tempera on panel painting, later transferred to canvas, originally part of a predella—a series of small narrative scenes forming the base of an altarpiece.
Subject & Meaning
Depicting the birth of Jesus, the painting highlights a moment of divine revelation of his nature, surrounded by Mary, Joseph, shepherds, and angels in a serene stable setting.
Technique & Style
Executed in soft, glowing colors (pinks, blues, golds) using tempera—a medium based on egg yolk and pigment—the work exhibits a quiet, contemplative atmosphere.
History & Provenance
Originally one of five predella panels (including a Resurrection scene now at the Metropolitan Museum of Art), the main altarpiece it supported remains unidentified.
Artist & collection
Artist
Pietro Perugino (US: PERR-ə-JEE-noh, -oo-; Italian: ; born Pietro Vannucci or Pietro Vanucci; c.
