The Age of Augustus and the Birth of Jesus Christ by Jean-Léon Gérôme

This monumental and allegorical work belongs to the great tradition of nineteenth-century French history painting. The famous artist Gérôme Jean-Léon offers here an ambitious spiritual and political synthesis to illustrate a turning point in humanity. The composition entitled “The Age of Augustus and the Birth of Jesus Christ” brings together the glory of the Roman Empire and the humble birth of the Christian faith. This masterly creation reflects the painter’s desire to blend universal history and religious symbolism.

In the upper part of the painting, Emperor Augustus is seated on a majestic throne in front of a Roman temple of brilliant whiteness. Surrounded by senators and dignitaries, he dominates a huge assembly of conquered peoples who have come to pay him homage. In the foreground, in the shadow, stands the modest scene of the Nativity. The Infant Jesus, lying in a straw manger, diffuses a divine clarity that illuminates Mary and Joseph kneeling in prayer. On the left, a barbarian warrior and other figures of antiquity observe this miracle with astonishment. Tall angels watch over this holy scene in the midst of the tumultuous crowd.

The painter’s technical virtuosity is manifested in the harmonious organization of this immense and complex crowd. His perfect mastery of academic drawing and oil painting allows him to unify these two opposite worlds. This grandiose work consecrates the exceptional talent of the artist.