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Merry Christmas: The Nativity in Art History

Categories: Art History, Christmas, Holidays, painting

“Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.

“Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.’ ” – Luke 2:11-14

“Geburt Christi” by Bernardo Daddi, oil on wood, c.1325-1350

From the Proto-Renaissance, or “Quattrocento” period in Italy.  Bernardo Daddi was influenced towards realism by the paintings of Giotto.

Pierre Bladelin Triptych central panel, by Rogier van der Weyden

In this nativity by Rogier van der Weyden the usual simple shed, customary since Late Antiquity, developed into an elaborate ruined temple, initially Romanesque in style, which represented the dilapidated state of the Old Covenant of the Jewish law.

“Worship of the Shepherds” by Bronzino, oil on wood, c 1534-1540



Bronzino was an Italian Mannerist Painter from Florence. Mannerism is notable for its intellectual sophistication as well as its artificial (as opposed to naturalistic) qualities.

“Adoration of the Shepherds” by Gerard van Honthorst, 1622 Showing the use of Caravaggio inspired chiaroscuro, nighttime and candlelit scenes were a signature of Dutch painter Gerard van Honthorst and characteristic of the Baroque period.

Modern stained glass from the Taufkapelle, Koblenz-Arenberg

These traditional images from centuries ago are still breathtaking to behold.  Their inspirational subject matter and distinct influential styles still captivate us.

Elysian Studios wishes you a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

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Introducing …

“Irreverent Couture” by Elysian Studios

a new line of studio jewelry featuring bold combinations of fiber and beads

This statement necklace features sewn strands of silk, polyester and cotton fabrics in complementary colorways of slate and teal.  Glass, stone and pearl beads have been artfully arranged and handsewn on the necklace, with some strands cinched by black metal chain.

The fibers have been allowed to fray, creating a natural fringe.  In place of a traditional clasp, the necklace has been bound with a silk cord.  This glamorous piece makes a statement with even the simplest of outfits, and can be worn casually or to a more formal event.

Grey Cardigan by Elle, White Turtleneck by energie, both available at Kohl’s

The beads and theme were chosen by Lorelei Eurto and purchased from Michael’s Arts and Crafts: Peacock freshwater pearls, gunmetal chain, faceted mother of pearl ovals, chunky black nuggets and some glass that is transparent with silver edges.

I’d like to thank Lorelei, for organizing this blog hop, and her amazing eye for beads, that have now inspired two necklaces of mine.  I would also like to thank my steadfast model, Darth Vader, who stood for hours without complaint whle I built this necklace!  Maybe he could use the Force to bring me a dressform for my next project!

For more inspired pieces, follow the blog hop list below, and have fun!

http://lorelei1141.blogspot.com/ http://threeredbeads.blogspot.com/

http://starcitystory.blogspot.com/ http://erinsiegeljewelry.blogspot.com/ http://www.thistlefarmarts.blogspot.com/ http://therabbitmuse.blogspot.com/ http://lindalandig.wordpress.com/ http://dreamsomedesigns.blogspot.com/ http://rosebud101-fortheloveofbeads.blogspot.com/ http://jenjuddrocks.blogspot.com/ http://formysweetdaughter.blogspot.com/ http://www.mylifeunderthebus.typepad.com/ http://deborahmpurdy.blogspot.com/ http://beadhappytoday.blogspot.com/ http://pinkicejewels.blogspot.com/ http://craftyhope.blogspot.com/ http://gr8findings.wordpress.com/ http://tropicbeads.blogspot.com/ http://melissaruth.com/blog/ http://maryhardingjewelrybeadblog.blogspot.com/ 
http://beautifullybrokenme.blogspot.com/

Congratulations to Roseanne of FabFibers! One of our “little zen” Christmas Ornaments will be coming your way! Please email me with your information so I can send him off to his new home for the Holidays!