Among the treasures offered in Roseberys' upcoming Fine & Decorative sale (Wednesday 26 June) is a standout private collection of late 18th and early 19th century Neapolitan Nativity figures.
Lot 516: A Neapolitan polychrome decorated terracotta and wood presepio group, late 18th century
The craft of Nativity figures, also known as creche figures, dates back centuries. By the 18th century, it was well established and in the city of Naples it was transformed into a fine art. Made of wood and terracotta - although other materials such as papier-mache were also used – Neapolitan creche figures are often the result of a collaboration between different artists and artisans, including painters, sculptors and textile manufacturers.
Creche figures are part of Nativity scenes, also called creches, cribs or alternatively presepi (plural) in Italian. They were made both for private and public viewing and could be of varying sizes. Small private scenes could be used as aids for prayer while larger scenes were usually displayed in churches or residencies and used as conversation starters, devotional objects or also as a tourist attraction. The figures belonging to these cribs vary in height and can be posed according to one’s taste and will. They are detailed and expressive in their poses and appearance and are often dressed with colourful and eye-catching garments.
Lot 521: Seven Neapolitan polychrome decorated terracotta and wood creche figures, 19th century
The creche figures offered in the upcoming Fine & Decorative sale span a number of characters, from the angels and biblical characters of lot 521 to ordinary people going about their lives in lots 522 and 523. As well as figures of people, two other lots – lots 516 and 517 – feature the figure of an impressive and realistically modelled horse.
As well as illustrating Nativity scenes, creche figures also reflect the multicultural society of Naples. Although the city had long been home to people from all over the world, creche figures demonstrate the lens of exoticism through which many Europeans still viewed visitors from other lands and non-Christians in the 18th century.
Lot 520: Five Neapolitan polychrome decorated terracotta and wood creche figures, 19th century
Creches are customisable by design: collectors could accumulate and rearrange figures and scenic elements to suit their tastes and needs. As these figures are made of fragile materials, such as terracotta and wood, it is important for buyers to satisfy themselves with their condition and to look for possible damages and wear. Signs of woodworm, losses of material and discolouration and tearing to the garments are things to be aware of when inspecting Nativity figures. As they are delicate, handling and displaying these figures with care is of paramount importance.
Lot 523: Three Neapolitan polychrome decorated terracotta and wood creche figures, 19th century
As with all antiques, seeing and handling in person is the best way for buyers to inspect an object and satisfy themselves before making a purchase. If you are curious about creche figures, make sure to come to the viewing of the upcoming Fine & Decorative auction.
Newsletter Signup
Newsletter
