Italy

Because of the glare I have included two views. Vintage photo of an old master painting.  I love this piece because it shows the desire to have nice things for whatever the purchaser could afford. Owning a master would have been reserved for only a few. This photo made it possible to own something so rare.  Originally it was very inexpensive. The frame is plaster, painted in indigo and gold. Someone really wanted a beautiful piece of art that they could afford. 

(L09.B.R.) 

 

USA, Arizona

This large ostrich egg was a gift from Jack and Elizabeth Fuller. One year for Christmas, they gave all the men in Jack and Colleen Fuller's family an ostrich egg with the words "Eat Big" printed on them. Jack Fuller Sr. used to always say "eat big" whenever they sat down for dinner. They were purchased at a gift shop at an ostrich farm in Arizona.

Donated to the Mesa Temple Visitors' Center Collection. 

 

USA, Arizona

This small Nativity is made from horseshoe nails. The baby has a crown made from a lock washer. I have such mixed feelings about it. It always gives me pause to think; knowing that the Baby Jesus would grow up to be the Savior of the world and be nailed to a cross wearing a crown of thorns, couldn't we let Him be a baby for awhile before reminding him that he will be crucified. When I see the baby holding a cross or having a cross somewhere in the scene just makes me so sad for him and Mary his mother. I am reminded of the song with the line in it. "But tonight He is mine."

 

Mexico

Purchased in Cancun, Mexico. This is a little clay hut with the scene inside. The baby is a tiny little guy.

(L.B.R.) 

 

France

These little porcelain figures are actually hinged boxes. They are Limoges boxes from Limoges, France. From the Limoges website:

"Limoges porcelain boxes, easily held in the palm of one's hand, is the epitome of miniature beauty, of craftsmanship par excellence. When admiring the miniatures, it may be difficult, in this day and age, to imagine the colorful history behind these highly collectible objects d'art...

To understand the origins of today's Limoges porcelain box, one has to consider both the history of porcelain, to discover how Limoges, France became a world leader in producing fine porcelain, and snuff boxes of the late 17th and 18th centuries, when many of the designs that continue to inspire designers today were first crafted by French factories. 

Looking back, it is amazing to discover that very little has changed in the manufacturing of Limoges boxes in the 300 years since their introduction. The process continues to be done by hand and in miniature. Today's Limoges boxes, however, serve a more decorative and collectible purpose. The art has been elevated to embrace wonderful whimsy in a variety of collections."

Donated to the Mesa Temple Visitors' Center Collection.  

  

Indonesia, Bali

This Nativity is made from a piece of leather that has been pierced and painted. It resembles the people of Bali.

(L09.B10.R01.)

Italy

This Nativity from Italy is made to look like a wood carving but is a resin relief and is just as darling. Just look at that little shepherd boy kissing the hand. The Baby Jesus. So precious. I believe it is by Anri.

(l09.B.R021.)