Die Geburt Christi
Lorenzo Monaco·1397
Historical Context
Lorenzo Monaco's Geburt Christi (Nativity, c. 1397) in the Gemäldegalerie Berlin represents the earliest phase of this pivotal artist's career. A Camaldolese monk at Santa Maria degli Angeli in Florence, Lorenzo Monaco would become the greatest exponent of the International Gothic style in Tuscany. This early Nativity already shows his signature lyrical elegance and jewel-like color, qualities that would profoundly influence the young Fra Angelico.
Technical Analysis
Tempera and gold on panel with Lorenzo Monaco's characteristic palette of ultramarine blue, rose pink, and luminous gold. The graceful, curvilinear drapery and elongated figural proportions anticipate his mature International Gothic manner.
