Title

The Red Devil

Creator

Unknown

Preview

Creation Date

Unknown

Medium

wood, husk

Exhibition Label

A very artisanal crèche at first sight, this nativity set has its own charm, originality, and humor. Made of humble materials, cornhusk and wooden sticks, the many darling figures have a life of their own. Speaking of charm, take a look at the swarm of ladies with their wide trimmed and blooming hats, and, for some, with colorful bouquets of flowers in their hands. Aren't they dressed and ready to ring in the joys of Spring? As to originality have you ever seen a monk gracing a nativity set? He is -- usually a Franciscan monk -- the announcer of the Christmas story. For that reason he is the first figure to appear in the crèche at the beginning of Advent. At the bottom of the sumptuous stairs there is a red devil. He is there to be made fun of. The role of his tribute is attached to a tree truck. He is the laughingstock of the noble ladies for how will he ever get the rose to the manger!

Description

Nativity set made from corn husk and wood by an unknown artist in Mexico. The date of creation is also unknown. Exhibition label originally written by Fr. Johann G. Roten, S.M. for exhibit entitled "At The Manger" and held at Roesch Library, University of Dayton.

Rights

This material may be protected by U.S. (Title 17, U.S. Code) and/or international copyright law. The material is available for personal, educational, and scholarly use. It is the responsibility of the researcher to locate and obtain permission from the copyright owner(s) or heirs for any other use, such as reproduction and publication.