The Nativity must be one of the most popular subjects of all with artists, north and south of the Alps, from the 13th to the 20th centuries, such as Giotto, Fra Angelico, Rembrandt to Rubens. Sometimes the scene takes place at night, sometimes during the day.  The lecture will explore the many variations of the scene and the possible meanings, depending upon whether midwives, Joseph or shepherds are present, and analyse the various postures and gestures of the Virgin as she adores the Christ Child.