Gottfried Helnwein, “Epiphany I (Adoration of the Magi)”, mixed media on canvas, 1996
his Austrian Catholic Nativity scene has no magi bearing gifts. Madonna and child are encircled by five respectful Waffen SS officers palpably in awe of the idealised, kitsch-blonde Virgin. The Christ toddler, who stands on Mary’s lap, stares defiantly out of the canvas. Helnwein’s baby Jesus is Adolf Hitler.
