16th century Spanish Nativity, polychrome wood

Charming panel carved in relief, polychrome and gilded, representing the Nativity scene.
The Virgin Mary is seated holding the newly born infant Jesus on her knees.
Dressed in a long coat and a veil, Marie has a gentle face.
With her right hand she makes a gesture towards her chest to feed her child.
To his right is Joseph, kneeling in prayer.
There are also several shepherds and an ox and a donkey under an arcade in the background.

Spanish work
Original polychromy
16th century

Historical annecdote :
The etymology of the word Christmas comes from the Latin “natalis”, which means birth.
The English term Christmas finds its origin in Old English "cr?stes mæsse", evoking the celebration of Christ.