Following Christ’s birth, the shepherds come to admire the child. Painted in warm tones, with a very detailed environment, the scene creates a natural and intimate climate.

Light is focused around Mary and Jesus, with other characters surrounding them. Mary, with her hair covered by a light-coloured turban, red shirt, and blue skirt, leans behind the crib. Here the light is very concentrated - as if Jesus himself was the light source.

Two shepherds lean in front of the crib whilst a young boy plays with a dog by the side of the standing man.

More people are talking to each other in the background.

The scene appears fluid and natural as the characters are not looking on to the viewer.      This work was commissioned by the Head of State Frederik Hendrik        

Oil on canvas