SEVEN NEAPOLITAN CRECHE FIGURES, LATE 18TH/EARLY 19TH CENTURY

SEVEN NEAPOLITAN CRECHE FIGURES, LATE 18TH/EARLY 19TH CENTURY comprising four large figures, ranging in size from h: 17 in. to h: 19 in., and three smaller figures, each approx. h: 10.5 in., each with terracotta heads and glass eyes, each dressed in status appropriate clothing, all atop circular turned wood bases, including a lady and gentleman, a man in a red cap and a bald man (all tall), along with two Magi and a woman (small) (7)

Note:
Early creche figures were typically of the Nativity, Wise Men and shepherds, but later included citizens from all walks of life. Wealthy patrons competed against each other for the most elaborate creche sets, and they are still highly collectible today. The Metropolitan Museum of Art displays its collection each year during the Holiday season.