The birth of Jesus Christ in Bethlehem is known as The Nativity and commemorated by Christians worldwide on Christmas Day - which stands for "mass on Christ's day".
Since the early centuries of Christianity, the Nativity has been one of the most frequently depicted biblical scenes in art. Here in Malta, the Nativity commands a special place in religious art and devotion - portrayed in paintings, statues, and the traditional Presepju (Crib).
To celebrate Christmas, this year MaltaPost shall issue a set of 2 stamps depicting Jesus' birth in a manger, the shepherds' visit to the Holy Family, and the arrival of the Magi. Both stamps are the work of local artist Paul Camilleri Cauchi, born in 1940 in Victoria, Gozo.
The painting within the 0.45 stamp depicts the arrival of the shepherds at the stable with Mary and Joseph and the Baby Jesus lying in a manger. The stable and manger represent humility and simplicity - the King of Kings born among the poor. The shepherds were considered lowly people and yet they were the first to receive the news of the Nativity. This painting is found within the Parish Church of the Assumption in Qrendi.
Camilleri Cauchi's painting within the 1.50 stamp focuses on the visit of the Magi from the East who were guided by the Star of Bethlehem to the birthplace of the newborn Christ - symbolising that Jesus' birth was a message to all nations. On arrival at the stable, they knelt and worshipped Him and presented gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. This splendid painting is found within the Parish Church of Sacro Cuor in Sliema.
