The traditional nativity scene mounted every Christmas in St. Peter's
Square will this year be offered to the Holy Father by the Italian
region of Basilicata.
The nativity scene, which includes one hundred
terracotta figures, is the work of Francesco Artese, one of the most
famous exponents of the southern school of traditional nativity
sculpture.
The most striking characteristic of Artese's work is his
recreation of landscapes of the Stones of Matera and his reproduction of
scenes of rural life.
Indeed, the nativity of St. Peter's Square is
reminiscent of locations in the Holy Land.
According to an
informative note published today, "The Lucanian landscape has been
enriched by the work of religious people who have chosen to live there,
transforming these places into a human settlement rich in holiness,
building 154 rupestrian churches, monasteries and sanctuaries which,
from the high Middle Ages until the nineteenth century, have shaped the
identity of a vast area which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
"The
scenery of the nativity, therefore, while inspired by a traditional
iconographic genre, is rendered unique by elements reproducing locations
and architecture typical of the Lucanian landscape. The rupestrian
churches of San Nicola dei Greci and Convicinio di Sant'Antonio are
recognisable, and above, the bell tower of San Pietro Barisano stands
tall amid the myriad rooftops. The human environment is that of ancient
Lucanian rural civilisation ... and the statuettes, made entirely of
terracotta, are dressed in clothing made of starched cloth and based on
the typical Lucanian peasant costumes of the past. Artese has chosen to
dress the Holy Family with costumes in the classic tradition".
"As in
previous years, the installation of the nativity scene is entrusted to
the Technical Services of the Governorate of Vatican City State".