Hummel Knock-Off Figurine

A local thrift shop often puts small items in baskets and sell them for 5 cents, 10 cents or 25 cents. The other week I spotted a figurine that sent off the message, “nativity!” There was an angel standing next to a baby in a cradle:

The angel holds a candle aloft and gazes down at the Child. I found that it is in fact a knock-off of the Hummel “Watchful Angel” figurine by Goebel.

It has no label but by the brushwork (which looks like there are chips on the surface, but there is not), I believe it is by Napco, made in Japan in the 1950’s. It was in a 5 cents basket, and when I questioned two clerks, they said, "Well, from that basket, it is selling for five cents!"

I am linking to 2nd Time Around Tuesday, hosted by Diane at A Picture Is Worth 1000 Words. See more participants at her blog.

I am also linking to Thrifty Thursdays at Tales From Bloggeritaville. Go there for more thrifty delights.

Notable Features Commonly Found in Nativity Sets, Part II

In this post I will continue where we left of discussing commonly found features of nativity scene sets.

While most sets have the Three Wise Men, many others will also include Shepherds visiting the newborn King. The shepherds are shown kneeling, worshipping Jesus, and carrying or accompanied by sheep or lambs.




Another feature of note is Angels as part of the scene. Most nativity sets include at least one angel.

The nativity scene will usually have one or more animals. The donkey and the ox represent the children of Israel and the Gentiles. Sheep relate to the shepherds but may also be present when there no shepherd figures. In that case, the lamb can represent Jesus as the Lamb of God. Finally, camels go along with the Wise Men

The account of the Three Wise Men tell of the Star of Bethlehem. This feature may be attached to a stable or placed elsewhere in the scene.

The last convention I will mention is the use of Halos for Mary, Jesus, Joseph, and sometimes also for the Angels.

You may find yourself noticing these elements in each of the nativity scenes to be presented in future posts.