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| Santons de Provence |
These are Santons de Provence (san-ton -the o is long, the n is nasal) = "little saints" /figures in the Nativity scene. The Blind Man and the Boy Carrying Kindle are part of the Crèche (kresh) or Nativity scene. Really.
After the Revolution, when churches with their live/wooden Nativity scenes were shut down, people in Provence started making the traditional figures out of bread and eventually out of the red clay particular to the region. The earliest known santon maker worked in the 1800's in the area of Marseille. In addition to the more commonly known figures of the Nativity scene, tradesmen such as Baker, Village Priest, and Fisherman are also represented. We happened to visit the factory in Aubagne where the pictured "saints", which were a given to our children as a gift, were made. Meters of shelving housed figurines of all sizes and trades. Of course, you could also buy the houses and accessories to create a lively town.
Our French family, like many others, has a full Crèche done up as a village with its buildings, flora and figures. It is a family heirloom, passed down from generation to generation. I've seen it on display once or twice and I must say it is interesting to decipher the professions of the townspeople. Given its age (look kids, it's Pompeii) it is not always an easy feat.
The south of France is not the only region known for santons-making. In eastern France and Italy as well, there is a real culture for these santons and people seek out rare pieces or have custom orders made up to start their own family traditions.
For all of you celebrating Christmas this weekend, Happy Holidays.
