In Praise of Shepherding

Creator

Preview

Creation Date

Unknown

Medium

wood

Exhibition Label

Rwanda is known as the “Land of the Thousands Hills” where nature is frugal and cattle are king. It could be said that at one time the land was peopled with farmers and shepherds. Rwandan Nativity sets show a special liking for shepherds. The kings are not absent from this set but, tall and slim, they look like crowned shepherds. The pointed hoods on the shepherds’ backs are little huts, “mobile homes” against wind, cold, and loneliness. Shepherds are nomads, people on the move. They are here, at the manger, for a moment, gathered in noble devotion. Reminiscent of the shepherds at the first Noël, they are a tribute to the one shepherd who will go after the lost sheep, any lost sheep.

Description

14 woodcarvings, some of which are painted black. Figures depicted include Jesus, Mary, Joseph, and three kings, as well as shepherds and water buffalo. The condition of the set is excellent. Exhibition label originally written by Fr. Johann G. Roten, S.M. for exhibit entitled "Elisabeth's Nativity House: The van Mullekom Collection" 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.