Christmas - Austria / II. Republic of Austria 1976 - 3 Shilling

The Christmas stamp of the year 1976 brings the nativity scene of a medieval altar, of which only two wings have survived the centuries. The upper part of one of the surviving wings has the representation of the "Nativity" used as a brand image. The painting, which was made around 1450, is the work of master Konrad von Friesach, who owes his fame above all to the Gurker Fastentuch, completed by him in 1458. The "Nativity" has characteristic features of the painting of this Carinthian master. In the depiction of the event is especially the naive-delightful portrayal of St. Josef as a "cook of the house" expresses the popularity of the Friesacher painter. In front of the detailed background dominates the noble, simple figure of Mary representation. In childlike loveliness the naked boy crosses his arms. His golden radiant wreath and the poinsettia above him bring the splendor of the sky into the poverty of a wickerwork crib. The patron and guardian of this jewel of popular and high-standing art is the Benedictine Abbey of St. Lambrecht.