Tradition meets contemporary design for the festive season

Published
11/16/2024

Depicted in Italian artworks since 380 AD, the first living nativity scene was born in the town of Greccio in 1223. In 1290, Italian sculptor Arnolfo di Cambio created the first known set of stone figurines that depicted the nativity scene. Since then, the sculptural congregation that celebrates the birth of Jesus has remained largely unchanged. Now, talented designers have started to offer their own take on the well-known representation of the stable, the holy family, and the three wise men. Created by Dutch designer Floris Hovers for Ikonic, this minimalist nativity scene reimagines the traditional depiction of Christ’s birth with a modern twist.

Redesigned with a focus on essential forms, this nativity scene transforms all of the characters into angular sculptures carved from wood. The figurines come to life in simple geometric forms that are both dynamic and idiosyncratic. Featuring 14 pieces, the set includes the crib with Baby Jesus, Joseph and Mary, the angel Gabriel, and the three wise men. A shepherd with four sheep and an ox and a donkey complete the gathering.

Crafted from solid beech wood, the figurines feature different color finishes that further set the characters apart. For example, the angel and Baby Jesus are painted in bright white, the three mages feature more vibrant tones, while the animals boast earthier colors.

Perfect as a gift, this minimalist nativity scene comes with a wooden box whose lid transforms into the stable. Inside the box, all of the pieces fit together like a puzzle, making storage easy. An elegant box sleeve completes the set.

 

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Celebrate the festive season with a modern twist

For centuries, the representation of the birth of Jesus has remained largely unchanged. The beautifully detailed stone, wood or porcelain figurines recreated the religious scene with a rustic touch and a traditional sensibility. Now, talented designers have started to reimagine the birth of Christ through a modern lens. Preserving the spirit of the sacred moment, this minimalist nativity scene designed by Floris Hovers for Ikonic brings each character to life in angular wood pieces.

Designed to look at home in modern living spaces, the set provides the perfect way to keep tradition alive and enhance any décor. The carved figurines are made from beech wood with simple geometric forms. Paint finishes make the pieces pop, with different colors used to create contrast between the characters. Standing out among brighter or earthy hues, the Baby Jesus and the angel Gabriel feature a bright white finish.

A complete set, this minimalist nativity scene comes with 14 pieces. Apart from Baby Jesus, Joseph and Mary, the characters also include the three wise men, the angel Gabriel, a shepherd with four sheep, an ox, and a donkey. The set’s box transforms into a stable with an angled roof, providing the perfect way to set the scene, whether in a living room or a child’s room. All of the figurines fit inside the box like a puzzle, making storage easy and convenient. Finished with an elegant sleeve that covers the wooden case, this set is ideal as a gift for the festive season.