Sculptural Nativity Scene (14 Figures) – Ukrainian Style (Boxed)

Sculptural toys are inspired by retro-style Christmas tree decorations that were collected by Galician townspeople and passed down in families from generation to generation. Made in the author’s technique using sawdust and paper.
Each toy is sculpted by hand, baked at high temperatures, polished and painted by our craftsmen.
This technology and the use of modern acrylic paints make the toy environmentally friendly, durable and allow it to be used outdoors. Our products are passed down as an inheritance.

The ancient tradition of the shopka dates back to the times when illiterate parishioners were told the biblical story of the birth of little Jesus in Bethlehem with the help of sculptural compositions in the church. Later, as cities grew and the number of townspeople increased, nativity scenes began to be set up in front of the cathedral. Even further, costumed performances were staged using bright costumes, iconic attributes, puppet theater, and song-stories about the Wonder-Wonder. We preserve this tradition, telling tales and legends and singing carols to our children and grandchildren about the power of love and goodness that govern our world. If not always on weekdays, then on holidays – definitely!
“Oh, rejoice, Earth, the Son of God is born!”

The ethno-craftsmanship “Koza Dereza” also created its own variation of the nativity scene. Along with the figurines of the baby Jesus Christ,
the Most Holy Theotokos, the holy betrothed and guardian Joseph, the craftsmen supplemented the composition with miniatures of two angels,
three kings and shepherds, and figurines of animals – a donkey, a camel, a cow and a goat.

Why were these characters chosen in the composition of the birth of Jesus? According to biblical legends, angels announced the
birth of the Son of God, and in the context of modern Ukraine they became harbingers of peace. The shepherds were the first to receive
this news, and in addition, in the Bible they personify care for others. The three kings or magi came from from the east and brought gifts that represent the ministry of Jesus: gold was presented as a gift to the king, frankincense as a gift to God, and myrrh as a gift to man. The presence of a donkey is not accidental, because Mary and Joseph laid Jesus between it and the ox so that the animals could warm the child with their breath. The cow and the goat appear as familiar characters of Ukrainian rituals, in particular the winter cycle, and symbolize abundance. The entire collection is made by the careful hands of our craftsmen so that each toy retains warmth and comfort. Eco-friendly, safe, durable – they will witness the warmest moments in the lives of your family and friends. The basket includes two lambs, two angels, a cow, a goat, three shepherds, three kings, Joseph in hat, Mary in Ukrainian dress.