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Sacred Images: The Christmas Story in Renaissance Art

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Sacred Images: The Christmas Story in Renaissance Art

Art-full Friday, Live from Tuscany

Afternoon Lecture/Seminar

Wednesday, December 20, 2023 - 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. ET
Code: 1D0034
Location:
This online program is presented on Zoom.
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$25
Member
$30
Non-Member
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Adoration of the Shepherds by Domenico Ghirlandaio

Please Note: This program has a rescheduled date (originally December 15, 2023).

You've sung the carols, you've sent the cards, but how well do you know the Nativity? The Christmas story has inspired some of the most affectionate, gentle, and intimate images in the history of Western art. They bring to life the account of Christ's birth, first told in the New Testament gospels of Saint Matthew and Saint Luke.

Equally as beautiful are the paintings that depict the events leading up to and following the miraculous birth. How the biblical narrative was portrayed in Renaissance art dramatically evolved over time, mirroring changes in society and shifts in religious attitude. Its depiction moved from a narrow, sacred vision of mother and child to a full-blown cast of humans and animals extending into modern times. Renaissance art historian Elaine Ruffolo offers a lavishly illustrated exploration of the Christmas story as told through Renaissance painting.

World Art History Certificate elective: Earn 1/2 credit*

Additional Art-full Friday Programs

General Information

*Enrolled participants in the World Art History Certificate Program receive 1/2 elective credit. Not yet enrolled? Learn about the program, its benefits, and how to register here.