Sometimes what is most important in our lives is right before us, unseen. The unfinished nature of this engraving shifts our perception of this well-known moment. Gentle, illuminated faces gaze on the Christ child. Their tender expressions are remarkably realistic and animated. Light emanates from the candle, casting a soft glow upon this doting audience. Mary’s quiet pride and the shepherds’ joyful delight are vividly portrayed.
We cannot see the admired Christ child, but we have no doubt he is the object of their devotion.
This artwork, made by virtuoso engraver Hendrik Goltzius, remained unfinished. Artists often return to projects over time, but Goltzius never completed this project. Despite that, it has become an iconic artwork, thematically captivating and an example of exceptional technical mastery of engraving. Its unfinished state beautifully heightens the emotion, offering a glimpse into the artist’s mind and highlighting the printmaker’s gift of creating meticulous line and form from blank space.
Because the child is not visible, our hearts focus on pure adoration for Christ. We are offered an opportunity to ponder the ties of familial love, the awe new parents feel and the astonishing wonder of the shepherds, come to adore the Child.
All of this is wrapped up in the expression of faith in this child, born to Mary: the Messiah, the Son of God. That is more than enough.
Joanna Reiling Lindell is vice president of Partnerships and Community Relations at Thrivent and chief curator of the Thrivent Art Collection.
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