5 Great Christmas Paintings You Should Know

Cultural and religious holidays have always been the source of inspiration for artists. Thanks to numerous artworks, modern people can travel to the past and look at how things were back then. Among all the holidays, Christmas holds a special place. Throughout the centuries, artists have created a myriad of paintings dedicated to this particular date in the Christian calendar, each depicting the holiday from a different perspective. Let’s look at the five great Christmas paintings that you should know!

5. “A Winter Scene with Skaters near a Castle” (1608–09) by Hendrick Averkamp

Hendrick Averkamp’s most renowned work is extremely popular today as you might often see it on Christmas cards. Though there is no direct correlation between Christmas and the painting, it does add a Christmas vibe to any celebration.

4. “Nativity” (1303–1305) by Giotto

The Italian artist Giotto depicted the birth of Jesus in great detail. As a matter of fact, it’s not a painting but a fresco, which, of course, doesn’t make its significance less worthy.

3. “The Wilton Diptych” (1395–1399) by an unknown artist

This religious painting puts Christmas into historical context. An unknown artist painted King Richard II of England kneeling before the Virgin Mary and Child Jesus.

2. “Winter Landscape with a Church” (1811) by Caspar David Friedrich

A mystically beautiful painting by the German master is riddled with details. No more words! You will open the secrets of this Romantic masterpiece on closer inspection.

1. “Adoration of the Shepherds” (1609) by Caravaggio

Despite being an atheist, Caravaggio managed to create a truly impressive nativity scene. Without a doubt, it is one of the most beautiful Christmas paintings ever existed.

Each artwork depicts Christmas (as a holiday) from a different perspective, which establishes a certain mood of a painting quite effectively. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy the beauty and magnificence of these paintings during the holiday celebration! We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!