This is a detail of my self-made crèche. It consists of more than 10 figures, many animals and dozens of small items. All materials are natural products, and hand-made or found in nature. I started to make this the figures for the Nativity scene about 25 years ago, meanwhile I made two more cribs for my sisters and their families.
This style of crèche origins in Switzerland where about 50 years ago, some women began with the development of this kind of figures, with movable limbs. From there they spread under different names to Germany and Austria. They are often known as biblical narrative figures or Egli-figures as they are popular in German Christian circles for telling bible stories.
This is so beautiful for many reasons, from you creating this wonderful image of Christmas and collecting these special items over many many years, to the photo you captured to representation the real reason for this holiday we share. Lovey capture M. :)
This is really interesting to learn about - I love the whole idea behind it - and to think that you made each individual piece - amazing. The shot of it is wonderful with very nice lighting.
