Since I am giving vintage Christmas decorations as presents this year, I am kind of obligated to send the packages off REALLY early. Today the 1st batch went out so that my friends and relatives can put them to use. Doing it again next year, too.
I lucked into some nativity sets made in Italy that look different than the usual sets, you know, the ones that look like they're about to break into song and dance, complete with jazz hands. The ones I found are much more naturalistic and remind me of figures from Renaissance art.
A couple of samples of this style. The company is Fontanini, but they also go under Mod Depose, and they don't make this style anymore...and apparently they made this style for a brief time.
Although Joseph and Mary still kind of look like they're surprised by what the Stork brought.
Now check out this Broadway level chorus. You can just hear them singing, can't you? And the jazz hands. So many jazz hands! Same company made both styles and they still produce this style.
I also lucked into vintage, made in USA, Annalee doll Christmas decorations to add to the ones I sent last year.
I like that they have the potential to be gifts that get an annual use.