Nativity

This finely carved group depicts the birth of Christ. The child is lying on a blanket in the foreground. Kneeling at the centre is the Virgin Mary. Diagonally behind her is Joseph holding a candle, protecting the flame from the wind. Three angels have arranged themselves around the baby Jesus. Two shepherds have just arrived. The ox and ass behind Mary watch curiously over the fence. The carving still has much of its original paint and gilding. The colours and the expressive gestures of the group make it a powerful piece.