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The Spanish Presepio
Trade and communication between Spain and Italy during the Bourbon
rule in Naples introduced the Presepio to the Iberian peninsula,
the region of Catalonia in particular. Since that time the Presepio
tradition has been restricted to large Nativity Scenes set up in
churches. Figures modelled in clay, by Ramon Amadeu (1745-1821)
the greatest sculpture of his day, started a school which was to
influence the art of the Presepio from then onwards. Typically Italian
figures found also in Spain were the heritage of Francisco Salzillo,
son of a Neapolitan.
The first association of Presepio lovers, formed precisely in Spain
around 1860, was short-lived. Later in 1921 in Barcelona the Asociacion
de Pesebristas led to the formation of numerous such associations
all over the country. Able craftsmen in various parts of the region
gave rise to the Catalan School of Clay which produced authentic
masterpieces, revolutionising the centuries old style of Presepio
in paper and cork, specialising in what came to be known as the
historical Presepio, reproducing as faithfully as possible the scenery,
environment and customs of Palestine at the time of the birth of
Jesus.
Every year just before Christmas markets appear in all the main
towns in Spain where people come to buy all sorts of items. There
is also a tradition for children to go from home to home carrying
a basket bearing a portable Presepio which they uncover as they
sing Christmas carols and receive in exchange gifts and sweets.
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Fides News
Fides
News 2004