5 inch scale nativity set made in Italy + Manger
This is a 5 inch scale nativity set with "Italy" stamped on every piece except the angel. The set contains the Holy Family, the three wise men, an angel, a shepherd, a donkey, and an ox. All are in very good condition; none are damaged. There is a small hole in Joseph's hand where he could have a staff. It's uncertain if he had one originally and it is missing, or if the hole is there to add a staff later. The ox's horns are made from springs. The pieces came with the manger when purchased in 2003, but it does not have any markings related to its origin. Thus, it may not be original to the set when it was created. The manger is made of wood and is 15 inches long, x 7 inches wide, x 10.5 inches high. It appears to be the same style as the 12 inch set I posted. The sculptures appear to be made from some sort of heavy paper mache. They do not seem to be ceramic or stone. They are lightweight for their size and could possibly be hollow on the inside.
The pieces and the manger were purchased for $20 at an antique shop in the United States on September 16, 2003.
Other
Maybe
Hi Roger,
Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.
Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:
A vintage 10-piece Italian papier-mache Nativity set
mid 20th Century
comprising Mary, Joseph, Jesus in a manger, a recumbent ox and donkey, 3 magi, a shepherd boy holding a lamb in his arms, all within a peaked manger with winged angel above.
manger 10 1/2 inches high, 15 inches long, 7 inches wide; figures each approximately 5 inches tall
CONDITION: appears to be in good condition; some minor removable elements appear to be missing
PROVENANCE: acquired from an antique store in the US in 2003
$400-600*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.
Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, and thank you again for using Mearto.
