Materials Used in Nativity Scenes, Part I

Here is a selection of the materials used by various artisans to make nativity sets. These materials are fairly traditional. In another post I will show unusual materials used by various artisans.

Limestone - Ireland. This is a Celtic Style Nativity, sculpted by Kieran Forde and handcast in County Kildare, Ireland.



Soapstone – Kenya. These stylized figures were hand carved in the African nation of Kenya.

Palewa stone - India. This handsome stone is very heavy and has been beautifully carved.

Porcelain - England. The Royal Doulton Holiday Traditions Nativity has handpainted figures decorated in 22 karat gold trim.

Colorful Paper Mache. This set of six figures is rendered in bright colors.

Crystal – France. Of 24% Lead Crystal this nativity set is by Cristal d'Arques®. J. 0. Durand & Cie. The cardboard manger is the original box in which the set was packaged.

Crystal – Ireland A contemporary design handcut Waterford Nativity. Made in Ireland.

Gold infused Glass - Italy. The figures are of art glass infused with gold, made in Murano, Italy.

Handpainted Wood – Denmark These are vintage nativity figures made in Denmark.



Handpainted Wood - Russia. The hand-carved linden wood figures have also been hand-painted.

Pewter plate - USA. The pewter-plated metal is flat, but it has been etched in relief on both sides.

Cardstock - USA. A die-cut paper nativity designed by artistTed Naos.

Plastic, - Italy. A vintage nativity scene of white plastic in a contemporary design. (It is set in an Avon stable.)


These nativity scenes have been manufactured of materials in a fairly traditional manner, though the various ethnic representations place the characters in their own country's setting. The next post will introduce other more unusual materials.