Nativity scene at the Museo de Historia de Madrid

The Museo de Historia de Madrid has presented an impressive Neapolitan nativity scene comprising 51 figures, combining scenes of everyday life in 18th-century Naples with traditional Christmas imagery.

An unknown master created intricately detailed movable figures from wood and clay and equipped them with accessories highlighting the characters’ social roles: from peasants and street vendors to musicians and the lavish entourage of the Three Kings. At the centre of the composition is the Nativity, with ancient ruins in the background above which a cascade of small angels flutters.