Christmas Italian Creche or Nativity Scene, 16 Pc.

A wonderful Creche set or Nativity scene has 16 large pieces, hand-made and painted in Sicily, Italy about 1900. The beloved Christmas story is embodied in this traditional grouping of chalk or composition figures. This set has worn original paint with losses and beautiful antique patina and lots of character.

Entirely original except for some small touch-ups, there are toes missing on one of the Three Kings and Joseph. These famous sets have been hand-crafted on the island of Sicily for hundreds of years, and the figures wear Renaissance era clothing. All are standing except the angel with its Latin inscription, "Gloria in Excelsis Deo."

Naturalistic poses, reverently facing the baby Jesus are movingly represented. Faded tones of Old Master paintings are soft and lovely. The tallest figure is a shepherd playing a flute and his sheepdog, almost 24" tall. A little lamb is almost 6" tall, the shortest figure, and the hanging angel is 15" tall.

Item # B-C1891