Christmas Cribs

Depicting the birth of Jesus by means of a nativity scene has been a beloved tradition for centuries. Almost a hundred nativity scenes and nativity groups from the collection of Jo and Maria Smits will come together in the Kunsthal this winter. The exhibition Midden in de Winternacht presents special examples from their extensive collection, ranging from classic examples in wood and porcelain to innovative designs of 3D-printed plastic to Playmobil and Swarovski crystal. The exhibition shows how the timeless nativity scene is constantly being reinterpreted and designed.

The nativity scenes and groups – in which Jesus is surrounded by Mary and Joseph, and often also shepherds, the three wise men and a colourful procession of animals – come from all over the world. For example, in the Kunsthal you will find a Czech nativity scene, in which the figures are made of corn leaves, and a Peruvian group with cheerfully painted shoes. A Thai nativity scene stands out with figures in silky, colourful robes that are reminiscent of traditional Thai costumes. The collection also shows a striking variety in size – the smallest stable is only four millimetres in size – and material: you will find a porcelain nativity scene in origami style, a Delft blue scene with camels, a playful arrangement of rubber ducks and even a group made entirely of straw.