This highly expressive nativity was carve in sustainable oniya wood by Francis Agbete. Flanked by a sheep, a lamb and a donkey, Baby Jesus is welcomed into this Ghanaian village. Mary kneels next to Jesus, with an angel standing above him. Joseph and a shepherd, both holding a staff protectively guard him. The Magi approach the Holy Family bearing their gifts. And a drumming animates the scene. The tallest piece is 3.5″ H x 1.6″ W x 0.8″ D. The smallest piece is 1.2″ H x 1.2″ W x 0.4″ D.
Francis Agbete was born December 28, 1976 in a family of traditional wood carvers in a suburb of Accra, the capital of Ghana. He learned the trade from his father whom he assisted in his workshop. While still in school he started his own workshop together with his sister and a cousin. Today they operate a workshop where his father’s work is exhibited as well.
Artist: Francis Agbete
Country: Ghana
Material: Unknown, Wood
Number of Pieces: 12
Jesus, Mary, Joseph, one shepherd, one angel, three Magi, a drummer, two sheep and a donkey
Acquired: 2016