Cameroon

The following Nativities are each displayed in a unique permanent setting created by Marian Library Crèche Collection volunteers. The descriptive text for each was written by Father Johann Roten, S.M.

Cast in Brass
"Chez Emmanuel"

Cast in brass by artisans of "Chez Emmanuel," this nativity reflects in style and material the traditional West African handicrafts. The sumptuous red backdrop highlights the originality of the figures, their prayerful simplicity and primitive but authentic humanness.

– ML.1121.02

Tattoos
Prescraft Cameroon

Churches have been instrumental in promoting art and handicrafts in Africa and elsewhere. This set of seventeen pieces of dark brown ceramic was crafted at one of the three handicraft centers run by the Presbyterian Church in Cameroon. The setting relates Christmas to Easter and underscores the rich brown coloring of the varied and expressive figures. What looks like tattoos on animals and people is in fact a tribal "business card."

– ML.2612