The Nativity, Federico Barocci, Prado 

【English Guide / 英文導覽】

Theme: The Nativity — Divine Glory in Poverty

Introduction: This window depicts the holiest night in Bethlehem, where the Light of the World was born in a humble manger, surrounded by the love of the Holy Family.

Scripture: "And she gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger... The angel said to them, 'I proclaim to you good news of great joy: For today in the city of David a savior has been born for you who is Messiah and Lord.'" (Luke 2:7, 10-11)

Artistic Appreciation 

•  Surrounded by the Holy Family At the center of the scene is the Infant Jesus in swaddling clothes, watched over by the Virgin Mary and Saint Joseph in postures of humble prayer. Their eyes, filled with awe and tenderness, present a perfect model of the first "Domestic Church."

• The Celebration of Angels Surrounding the top of the image are throngs of little angels appearing amidst the clouds. They symbolize the communion of saints and the heavenly host rejoicing in this divine birth.

• Humble Glory Though there is no magnificent palace, the delicate lines of the stained glass convey a sense of heavenly peace and glory that transcends all worldly wealth.

Spiritual Reflection: St. Thérèse once said, "Our Lord does not so much look at the greatness of our actions, or even at their difficulty, as at the love with which we do them." Jesus came to us as a vulnerable child to show that God is present in our most ordinary moments. May this scene remind us that every act of humble love creates a place for Jesus to dwell in our hearts.