Nativity

The pastoral mood, asymmetrical design, and complex spatial arrangements are typical Venetian variants on a traditional theme. Most unusual are the crucifix behind, and the mousetrap, on which the artist has signed his name in the lower right corner. The crucifix is a late - possibly much later - addition by Lotto. The idea of concentrating in one image the initial (the Nativity) and final (the Crucifixion) moment of the Redemption seems to derive from Venetian ideas.

Suggested listening (streaming mp3, 16 minutes): Arcangelo Corelli: Concerto grosso in g minor op. 6 No. 8 (Christmas Concerto)