Outside and Inside

Creator

Unknown

Preview

Creation Date

Unknown

Medium

clay

Exhibition Label

Well to do cultures and countries have a tendency to keep it all inside to protect their riches and avoid jealousy. Countries of lesser economic standing seem to be of a more generous outreach. Whatever the sociological truth of this observation, it is a fact that the joy of a heart and soul seeks an outlet, a like-minded spirit, a willing ear, a resonating voice, and--yes!--painted houses. Eastern Europe, Southern Africa, and parts of Latin America paint their houses to beautify nature. If some of these traditions may use this practice in order to hide poverty, there remains the underlying truth that great joy and sorrow, life-giving convictions and endeavors seek open manifestation. Such is the message of these homes. The noble baroque architecture of the Andes nativity and the colorfully painted ceramic nativities of Mexico are witnesses to a joy too great to be kept inside.

Description

Three nativity sets made from clay and handpainted created by unknown artists. The date of creation is unknown. Two of the sets are from Peru and the third is from Mexico. Exhibition label originally written by Fr. Johann G. Roten, S.M. for exhibit 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.