#nativityicon

Mary’s birth has been celebrated since at least the 6th century. Officially called the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the feast is the subject of many Russian icons that often depict the Mother of God with scenes of her life.

On September 8, Saint Anne gave birth to Mary, the mother of Jesus. The interesting historical fact is that the scriptures don’t give an account of Mary’s birth, so the month and date were chosen simply because the Eastern Church begins the liturgical year with September.

Details of our "Nativity of Christ" icon

Our Nativity of Christ Icon portrays the Virgin lies on her couch, adoring the newborn Holy Child. In this icon of the Nativity of Christ, the magi bring gifts, angels adore, and an angel announces the Nativity to the shepherds. At the left Saint Joseph ponders the mystery, and in the lower right midwives bathe the Divine Infant.

Detail of "The Nativity of Christ" icon from Monastery Icons.

In this touching portrait of the Madonna and Child, the Blessed Virgin protectively embraces the newborn Christ Child. The starry glory of the night sky and the crimson flowers that frame the scene echo the abundant life that the Incarnation will give the world.