Realistically modelled crib figures are a particular speciality of southern European countries – the Santons of Provence being one well-known example. Another is the famous presepe figures from Naples.
Although the tradition of a crib scene is thought to have started with St Francis of Assisi with living figures forming a tableau, the Neapolitan creations are particularly arresting multi-figure arrangements. They feature not just figures from the Nativity story but also a host of different local artisans and street sellers identified by their costume and accoutrements.
These elaborate south Italian creations really got under way in the 18th century when well-known Neapolitan artists and sculptors were employed to create what were in effect small-scale sculptures in terracotta and wood, wearing costumes of real cloth.