Beginning a New Year with the Most Beautiful and Holy Woman ever created by God!

The Mother brought forth the King whose name is eternal; the joy of a mother was hers, remaining a Virgin most pure; neither before nor since has there been nor shall be such a another

(Traditional Christmas Antiphon)

Bougereau’s beautiful painting of the virgin and child depicts Mary presenting baby Jesus as true gift to the world. Jesus’s arms are outstretched ready to embrace the world to himself, and yet, forshadowing aswell the future crucifixion. Mary is dressed in black as if already mourning the sacrifice her son makes for this world he reaches for. The background, being ornate and coloured gold elicits the richness of eternal life promised to the faithful. Both Mary and Jesus are seated on a throne, Queen and King over the world.