\paperw4260 \margr0\margl0 \plain \fs20 \f1 This small picture was originally part of a large altarpiece painted by Guido da Siena for the Sienese church of San Domenico. The cen
tral panel, depicting the \i Maestα\i0 , is now in the Palazzo Pubblico of Siena, while the numerous side panels of smaller size, containing \i Scenes from the Childhood and Passion of Christ\i0 , are currently found in various museums in Europe and Amer
ica. This panel is one of them and illustrates the \i Nativity of Jesus Christ\i0 . The composition follows the iconography of the Byzantine tradition, with the Virgin depicted lying down, wrapped in her cloak, after the moment of birth. Behind her the C
hild is in his cradle, guarded by the donkey and ox. In the foreground we see two maidservants, washing and caring for the newborn Child. A rocky mountain, modeled in brushstrokes of white light, frames and shelters the central group of figures. St. Jose
ph is seated on the left. On the right we see the shepherds and their animals, come to adore the Child. The circle is closed by six angels with widespread wings, set above the mountain in various attitudes of prayer and veneration.\par
