This Aïr stone nativity comprises 11 semi-abstract and stylized figures. They include Mary, Joseph, Jesus, three magi, a zebu, buffalo, sheep and donkey. The nativity is handcrafted by Tuareg craftsmen using a typical Tuareg technique. The Aïr stone is extracted from the Aïr massif near Agadez in northern Niger. This stone is very close to soapstone. First, the stone is heated and proven with coal fire to give it its unique brown-black color. Then the stone is manually engraved to bring out the white furrows. The height varies between 3-6 inches.
