Every year, during the Christmas period, the nativity scene becomes one of the most representative symbolic elements of the festivities. This tradition, which dates back centuries, is loved all over the world and has found multiple artistic interpretations. The Arab-style nativity scene, in particular, has a strong connection with the historicity of the place where the Nativity took place: Bethlehem, the city that also saw the birth of King David and which was the place prophesied for the coming of the Messiah.
In Italy, the Arab-style nativity scene has also been made famous thanks to figurine production houses such as Moranduzzo and Fontanini , who have paid particular attention to historical and cultural details in the creation of the figures and settings. These nativity scenes are not simple reconstructions of the Nativity, but real works of art that transport the viewer to an atmosphere of times gone by, made of colors, shapes and sounds that recall the Middle East.
The Arabic style in the Nativity scene
The inclusion of the Arabic style in the figurines of the nativity scene is not only an aesthetic choice, but also represents a reflection on the historical and geographical context in which the Nativity took place. Palestine in the first century was, in fact, a crossroads of cultures and influences, including the Arab ones.
The Arab-style figurines help us better understand the environment in which Jesus was born, with his people and his culture. Bethlehem, in fact, has an arid climate, rocky hills and a culture deeply influenced by the Arab world in expressions and clothing.
The characters of the Arab Nativity scene: clothes and representations
The costumes worn by the figurines are one of the most fascinating aspects of an Arab nativity scene. The figures are depicted with long and flowing tunics, reminiscent of those traditionally worn in the desert. The Madonna and Saint Joseph are depicted with simple clothes, but rich in symbolism.
In Fontanini's Arabian-style nativity, for example, Mary is depicted wearing blue or white clothes, colors that evoke purity and innocence, while Saint Joseph wears a tunic in warm, earthy tones, which recall the desert earth and symbolize its solidity. The carefully studied choice of fabrics and colors not only reflects the humility of the holy family, but also emphasizes their deep connection with the natural environment that surrounds them.
The characters' expressions are drawn with great delicacy, capturing the details of the clothes and the devout attitude of Saint Joseph. The sweet and simple Baby Jesus figurine , made of PVC, is hand-painted with meticulous care. This figurine enhances the serenity and sweetness of the infant, making it an essential element for those seeking an authentic representation of Christmas. Ideal for collectors and enthusiasts, its beauty and spirituality make it a perfect enrichment for any nativity scene, adding a touch of sacredness and tradition.
The figures of the shepherds and the Magi, on the other hand, are dressed in clothes that reflect the variety of Middle Eastern cultures, with tunics and cloaks in bright colours and refined textures.
The houses and buildings
In addition to the figurines, the Arab-style nativity scene is distinguished by the use of elements that enrich the scenography and that are typical of daily life in ancient Palestine. The houses for the Arab nativity scene are white and simple, with domed roofs, in the style typical of Middle Eastern homes. The villages are enriched with small mosques, minarets and tents, which evoke the nomadic environment of the desert. Elements such as Roman forts , which recall the presence of the Roman Empire in Palestine at the time of the Nativity, are added elements to give a realistic historical touch. The resin or cork architectures used to build the houses are painted with colors that recall the shades of the desert: beige, sand, brown.
In addition to the characters, the background of the nativity scene also plays a fundamental role. The dunes, the white houses and the palm trees are essential elements, as well as the intense blue sky of the desert, enriched by stars and the moon, is a detail that helps to evoke the Arab-Palestinian atmosphere.
In our online shop , you will find an exclusive selection of characters that will enrich your nativity scene with authentic and fascinating details. Among the available figurines, we offer figures such as fishermen , the rice weeders , and washerwomen . Each character is made with the utmost attention to detail, to make your nativity scene even more realistic and full of stories to tell. Discover our collection and enrich your nativity scene with these unique figures, perfect for creating an authentic and evocative atmosphere.