Die Geburt Christi mit einer Anbetung der Hirten sowie der Heiligen drei Könige 1843

Alfred Rethel created this pencil drawing, "The Birth of Christ with the Adoration of the Shepherds and the Three Holy Kings" in 1843. Rethel was working in Germany during a period of intense nationalism, religious revival, and social change. In this triptych, Rethel depicts the nativity scene. The left panel shows the Three Kings, who represent worldly power and wealth, while the right panel shows the Shepherds, who represent the poor and marginalized. Central to this drawing is the idea of salvation being offered to all, regardless of social status or origin. Mary kneels before the baby Jesus in the central panel. The three panels are united under gothic arches, which emphasize a longing for a return to the perceived certainties of the past. This drawing provides insight into the religious and social values of 19th-century Germany. It invites us to reflect on the emotional and spiritual significance of the nativity story and its enduring relevance to questions of faith, identity, and social justice.