While both the Gospels of Matthew and Luke narrate the story of the Nativity, only Luke’s account provides the unique details of the inn, manger, swaddling cloths, and shepherds. In the earliest tradition, an ox and ass become incorporated into the scene, though they are not mentioned in Luke 2:1–20. Each one of these elements presents historical aspects which the original Greco-Roman and Jewish audiences would be familiar with as part of everyday life. They all also convey important symbolism, alluding to various Old Testament passages that signify the theological meaning of the birth of this infant as the Davidic Messiah. Luke’s literary skill demands that each element be considered carefully in terms of its context and relevance to the account. Artistic depictions of the inn, manger, swaddling cloths, shepherds, and animals offer some intriguing interpretations of these elements.