Old king

18th century

Not on view

Genoese crèche figures are rarely found at all, let alone with entirely original garments. The figures were designed to be redressed several times in the course of the Christmas season so as to represent different characters in the stages of the spectacle (Nativity, Adoration of the Magi, and the Presentation in the Temple). These constant costume changes led to wear and tear on the fragile clothing. What does remain in the case of this figure is exceptionally fine.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Title: Old king
Date: 18th century
Culture: probably Italian, Genoa
Medium: Polychromed wooden body dressed in silk, satin and velvet garments; glass eyes
Dimensions: H. 15 1/2 in. (39.4 cm.)
Classification: Crèche
Credit Line: Gift of Dr. and Mrs. Christopher T. Bever, in memory of Professor Rudolf Berliner, 1993
Object Number: 1993.488.1
Curatorial Department: European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

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