Oberried Altarpiece, right interior wing - The Birth of Christ 1522

Hans Holbein the Younger painted “The Birth of Christ” as the right interior wing of the Oberried Altarpiece, rendered in oil on wood panel. Holbein, an artist of the Northern Renaissance, lived in a time of religious and political upheaval, and this painting is no exception to that. Rather than presenting a traditional, idealized image, Holbein situates the Holy Family within contemporary architecture, merging the sacred with the everyday. The painting's emotional intensity is heightened by its intimate portrayal of the figures, surrounded by onlookers who reflect the social hierarchy of Holbein's time. We see a clear display of wealth in the details of the fabrics and architectural elements. The inclusion of donor portraits emphasizes the connection between earthly power and divine grace. Holbein’s rendering invites viewers to reflect on the intersection of faith, power, and the complex tapestry of human experience, capturing a timeless moment.