Do You See What I See? Imagery in Nativity Scenes
Alebrijes Nativity. San Martin Tilcajete, Oaxaca, Mexico, late 1990s. Artisans of the Oaxaca valley carve Alebrijes figures using the wood of the local copal tree. Some of the carvings depict mythical creatures with roots in pre-Christian beliefs. The animals in this Nativity set apparently represent the traditional ox and donkey, but have been carved and painted in the style of the fantastic Alebrijes creatures. Collection of Glencairn Museum, gift of Frank and Mary Herzel.
Credits
Content: Ed Gyllenhaal
Research Assistance:
Kirsten Gyllenhaal and Michele McElderry
Web Design: Chara Odhner
Production Coordinator: Joralyn Echols Glenn
Photography: Diane vanZyverden
We would like to thank the Bryn Athyn College Research Committee and Glencairn Museum for their support.