SACROARTE SEVILLA &
CRISTINE BEDFOR
In Catholic tradition, the creation of the first Nativity scene is attributed to Saint Francis of Assisi in the 13th century. Since then, this symbol has become an essential element of Christmas celebrations. During the Baroque period, the custom of setting up the Nativity scene reached noble households and, shortly after, more modest homes as well.
In Seville, this tradition takes on a special significance: the city fills with Nativity scenes and “mysteries” during the Christmas season. Highlights include the Nativity Scene at the City Hall’s Arquillo, the one in the Cathedral, the Neapolitan scene at the Hospital de la Caridad, and the historic Nativity Scene at the convent of Santa Paula. Joining this list is an essential new stop on the Nativity route: our own Nativity Scene at Cristine Bedfor, on Amor de Dios Street, 29.
It was King Charles III who promoted its spread throughout Spain thanks to his close ties with Naples and its famous Neapolitan crèche tradition.
Figures in fired terracotta and
polychromed in oil.
Dressed in colored silks and
gold metal trimmings.
Figures in fired terracotta and
polychromed in oil.
Dressed in colored silks and
gold metal trimmings.
Wood and fired terracotta,
polychromed in oil.
Lamp in authentic Austrian
crystal and base included.
In Seville, everyone knows the iconic antique dealers Braulio and Fernando, known as the Bastilippos—an absolute must when it comes to creating a Nativity display. To celebrate our first Christmas in the city, we needed expert help, and turning to them was almost obligatory. Thanks to their involvement, we were introduced to acclaimed Nativity artists Ariel Mora and Javier Navarro from Sacroarte.
Ariel, a self-taught sculptor of sacred imagery, created three new figures for our Nativity Scene: the Virgin, the Child, and Saint Joseph. Javier, an IT professional by trade and Nativity artist by vocation since childhood, is passionate about Neapolitan Nativity scenes, a specialty reflected in his way of dressing the figures, always with a touch of Sevillian Baroque influence. Together, they form an inseparable duo that, since 2015, has been crafting true works of art in clay, resin, and even using 3D techniques.
Cristine Bedfor
From November 28th, you can enjoy this marvel in our lobby, where the scenography created by our beloved Bastilippos elevates the whole ensemble even further. The result, as ou will see, is truly worth the visit.
