European Stars and Stripes (Newspaper) - December 15, 1994, Darmstadt, Hesse I t a l y this desert diorama depicts the scene of the nativity with shepherds camels and sheep the figures of Mary and Joseph and a Little crib containing the holy infant. Mania this flamboyant scene was done in 16th-Century neapolitan style. Nativity scenes snowball into major collections Northern Italy Bureau in climates where the fir tree is easily accessible the Christmas tree presides Over the Holiday scene but in nearly All other areas the nativity scene reigns serenely supreme. The Beautiful custom of portraying the birth of Christ in a stable comes from Italy where in 1223, St. Francis is said to have re created the event of Christ s birth with a live nativity scene in the Hills near Assisi. The touching scene had a Wax image of the baby Jesus in a Humble crib being watched Over by a real of and Donkey. St. Francis used the scene to help bring the nativity Story to life for the villagers. The villagers fell in love with the nativity presentation and the charming Manger scene was soon being displayed in other villages throughout the country. Somewhere along the Way the idea of using miniature figures to Tell the Story was born. From Italy the custom spread rapidly to other european countries and then around the Globe. Eventually new figures representing local types of diverse settings and occupations were added. Today some of these nativity scenes May occupy half a room in b Home. The tiny figures Are lovingly preserved from year to year and for generations cherished by the family that owns them. No matter How Many Manger or 8 stripes Magazine december 15, 1994
