The stable is different from the stables in most of my nativity scenes in that it is designed as a cave. Luke 2:7 indicates that the Babe was placed "in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn." Many historians indicate that the original birthplace was in fact a cave where the animals would be kept. The manger would have been a feed trough for the animals.
The material used for the structure is some sort of paper mache. There is some damage to the roofline.
The figures are handpainted and glued in place.
The group gathered are the Wise Men on the left, the family in the middle and the shepherds on the right.
The dusty condition of the piece shows that it was no longer used and hadn't been used for a long time. I was glad to buy it for my collection for the sum of $3.00.
To see more vintage things, please visit Lisa at Confessions of an Apron Queen for a list of participating posts.
I love this one! I had read that about the cave also, in a history book. I have several of these same figurines w/ my creche.
ReplyDeleteI just looked down through your blog at all the nativity things. This is quite a comprehensive study of the nativity. I especially like the blue Mary parts. The cave history is interesting too.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing.
Charlotte
This is a treasure, how fortunate you are to have found it.
ReplyDeleteI wish some day all my blogginG friends could gather in one place but not in this life, right?
Roslyn
Amazing find and price! It is unreal
ReplyDeletewhat folks donate and we get to
take home and enjoy!
What a lovely nativity, Carrie - I love all your collections!
ReplyDeleteA lovely item and a great bargain :)
ReplyDeleteI like the cave. Super great find!
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