The Holy Family Carved in Wood
The central figures of the Nativity scene are the members of the Holy Family: Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. Jesus represents God coming into the world without material possessions. He is usually depicted with a cradle carved from one or two separate pieces of wood. In the latter case, the child can be moved and placed in Mary’s arms. Mary is typically seated or kneeling beside the cradle, embodying innocence, purity, and faith in God’s work. Joseph stands beside or behind his family, holding a lit lantern or leaning on his staff. He symbolizes protection and is known as the “Crusader of Light,” illuminating the world through the birth of Jesus.
Alternatively, the Holy Family may be carved from a single block of wood, with the figures inseparable. This is a practical option for those who lack the space for a traditional Nativity scene.
At Dolfi, you’ll find these figures in a wide variety of styles—from Western to Eastern, rustic Tyrolean to contemporary interpretations.
The Ox and the Donkey
Behind the Holy Family stand the ox and the donkey. Although they are not mentioned in the Christmas Gospel, they have become essential characters in the Nativity tradition. Isaiah 1:3 reads: “The ox knows its owner, and the donkey its master’s manger.” Their presence reflects the relationship between God, humanity, and animals—a theme central to the Old Testament. As beasts of burden, they symbolize the weight Jesus takes upon himself for others.
The Three Wise Men
Caspar, Balthazar, and Melchior—the “Wise Men from the East”—are among the most important figures in the Nativity scene. Many legends surround them. They likely represent the known continents of the time: Africa, Asia, and Europe. Each brings a gift to the Christ child: myrrh, incense, and gold.
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Caspar, with dark skin, represents Africa and offers myrrh, whose bitter taste foretells Jesus’s suffering and death.
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Balthazar represents Asia and brings incense, symbolizing prayer and sacrifice.
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Melchior stands for Europe and presents gold, signifying wealth, wisdom, and power.
The Angels
Angels were sent by God to spread the Good News across the world. In the Nativity scene, they are depicted as winged childlike figures. There are two main types:
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The Angel of Glory, placed above the Holy Family, often attached to the stable and sometimes holding a banner with the words “Gloria in excelsis Deo.”
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The Angel of the Annunciation, standing, represents the Archangel Gabriel, who brought the message to Mary in the sixth month. If multiple angels appear in the scene, they symbolize the heavenly choir.
The Shepherds
When the angels announced the Good News, the shepherds immediately went to see the Savior. They represent ordinary people and the care Jesus has for others. That’s why hardworking individuals were the first to learn of his birth and play such a vital role in the Nativity. They are often shown bringing gifts such as lambs, wood, or food.
Other Wooden Animals
In addition to the ox and donkey, other animals often appear in the Nativity scene, such as the shepherds’ sheep. These were considered especially valuable as sources of food and clothing. Lambs were seen as sacrificial animals and are sometimes carried by shepherds—on their shoulders or in their arms. Sheepdogs were already used to guard flocks and symbolize vigilance. It is said that Balthazar arrived at the stable on a camel, Caspar on an elephant, and Melchior on horseback.
Purchasing Nativity Figures
Nativity figurines offer plenty of room for interpretation. Each year, new characters are created that inspire collectors around the world, often carrying personal or regional significance.
At Dolfi, you can purchase hand-carved Nativity figures made in South Tyrol in a variety of styles. Upon request, special formats can be created—even life-size! You can order individual figures or complete sets and grouped arrangements.
