This nativity was made using many different natural fibers including palm and moor straw, banana and maize leaves, loofah, coco palm, damahua, allo fiber and starred anise. Artisans cut various shapes from these fibers and weave them together and onto a woven palm straw circle.
This nativity is made using the ancient lost wax method of casting bronze. Originating in the Middle East in the ninth century, lost wax is one of the first known methods of working with molten metal. The artisan sculpts wax, then coats it with clay and allows it to dry. Molten bronze is poured into the mold, melting the wax and allowing liquid bronze to fill the shape. After the metal cools, the artisan breaks the clay, revealing a one-of-a-kind figure.
In this tender representation of the Holy Family Mary is rocking the Baby Jesus in his crib. Joseph, holding on to his staff is lovingly watching over Mary and Jesus.
This nativity set was created by artisans in Burkina Faso. They use old nuts, bolts, and pieces of scrap metal to give the traditional Christmas scene a rather modern appearance.
The Holy Family is often depicted on a journey. Sometimes they are shown walking.Often Mary is seated on a donkey and sometimes on a camel. There are depictions of the Holy Family in a boat. This version puts the Holy Family and the three Magi in a vintage car. They all seem to be having a fantastic time as they appear to be on a true joy ride.
