Curious Christian

Of the seven dimensions of religion (narrative, ritual, experience, legal, philosophical, institutional, and material) the narrative dimension is preeminent within Christianity so we often see sacred story informing sacred art.

This is a good example. If you look closely at this nativity you’ll see allusions to the angelic announcement to the shepherds, the coming of the magi, Herod having a hernia, and what looks like a baptism scene.