Nativity Figure: Joseph

A plaster-of-paris Nativity figure of Joseph, wearing a yellow robe and purple cloak on a black base. He is kneeling and looking down with his right arm extended. The figure is coated in a glossy varnish which is visibly yellowing. There is a break around the neck and several chips in the body.

Identification

  • Object Type: Nativity figure
  • Date: Mid-century modern (1940s/50s)
  • Origin: England
  • Owner: St. Pauls Church, Finchley, London
  • Maker: Unknown
  • Measurements: 
    • Width: 14.2 cm 
    • Height: 29.5 cm
  • Materials: Plaster-of-Paris

Summary

Two nativity figures from a set of 12, one is Joseph and the other is a king. They are made of plaster of Paris and painted with oils. The set belongs to my local church where I live in North London, and they were acquired sometime in the 40s or 50s. The church uses the set every year as part of their Christmas celebrations and thus the figures have received some considerable wear and tear, including lost limbs, damaged paint, and yellowed varnish. 

Behind the Scenes

A plaster-of-paris Nativity figure of Joseph, wearing a yellow robe and purple cloak on a black base. He is kneeling and looking down with his right arm extended. The figure is coated in a glossy varnish which is visibly yellowing. There is a break around the neck and several chips in the body.
Nativity figure of Joseph prior to conservation treatment.

The conservator who treated these objects is Madeleine, click on the profile to learn more.

Note: All images were taken by the conservator unless stated otherwise.

Maddie, a white woman in her early 20s with long brown hair. She is smiling widely and looking to her right and wearing a black lace top. The photo is in black and white.

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