The Nativity of Christ

The Orthodox Nativity icon is a complex, multi-layered composition. The Theotokos reclines at center. The Christ Child lies in a cave (not a stable), wrapped in burial cloths that prefigure his death. A star sends a beam of light into the cave. Angels sing above, shepherds listen, and the Magi approach.

In the lower corners, two additional scenes appear: Joseph sitting in temptation (a figure of doubt beside him), and the midwives bathing the newborn — affirming Christ's full humanity.