Josefina Aguilar Painted Pottery Nativity

This nativity is signed by the artist, Josefina Aguilar, who lives in Oaxaca, Mexico. Her pottery figures are famous and are held in museum collections. Her style is recognized internationally. She has now lost her eyesight, so she has ceased creating her work in pottery. This nativity includes a white angel with a crown, a staff, and one arm raised. Joseph holds a flowering staff. Mary has a decorated, fringed panel across her body. Baby Jesus can come out of his fancy bed, which features a pillow. Each of the three wise men wears a crown and carries a gift. A black figure might be considered a fourth king because he carries a gift. He is certainly Balthazar. Two peasants carry a lamb and a plate of food. Three small animals complete the set. The tallest figure is four and three-quarters inch tall (12.5 cm.).