An olive wood Nativity set is a hand carved depiction of the birth of Jesus, made from the wood of olive trees that grow in the Holy Land around Bethlehem, the very town where the Nativity took place. A traditional set includes the Holy Family of Mary, Joseph and the baby Jesus, often joined by the three wise men, shepherds, an angel and animals gathered around the manger.
Bethlehem Handicrafts has carved Nativity sets by hand in Bethlehem and shipped them to Christian homes across America since 2000. This guide explains the parts of a Nativity set, the styles available, and how to choose one that will become a family heirloom.
What is included in an olive wood Nativity set?
- The Holy Family. Mary, Joseph and the baby Jesus in the manger, the heart of every set.
- The three wise men. The Magi who followed the star to Bethlehem with their gifts.
- Shepherds and angels. The first to hear and share the good news of the birth.
- Animals. The ox, donkey and sheep that shared the stable.
- The stable or grotto. Some sets include a carved stable, cave or backdrop to hold the scene.
What sizes do Nativity sets come in?
Nativity sets range from small table top scenes only a few inches tall to large display sets with figures a foot high or more. Smaller sets suit a mantel, a shelf or a prayer corner, while larger sets become the centerpiece of a room during the Christmas season. Because each figure is carved by hand, the right size depends on the space you want to fill and how many pieces you would like in the scene.
You can see our full range in the Nativity scenes collection, with larger carved pieces in the Nativity sculptures collection and the Holy Family collection.
Why choose an olive wood Nativity from Bethlehem?
A Nativity set carved in Bethlehem carries the story home from its source. The olive wood comes from trees that grow in the same hills where the shepherds watched their flocks, and each set is shaped by hand by a Christian artisan family in the Holy Land. Olive wood is warm in color, rich in grain and strong enough to be handed down, so a Bethlehem Nativity often passes from one generation to the next as a treasured Christmas tradition.
How do you care for an olive wood Nativity set?
- Keep the figures away from direct heat, radiators and long hours of strong sunlight.
- Dust them gently with a soft dry cloth.
- Once or twice a year, rub in a little olive oil or natural wood oil to feed the grain.
- Store the pieces wrapped in soft cloth or tissue between seasons so they do not knock together.
Frequently asked questions
What figures should a Nativity set have?
At minimum the Holy Family of Mary, Joseph and the baby Jesus. Fuller sets add the three wise men, shepherds, an angel and animals around the manger.
Are olive wood Nativity sets really made in Bethlehem?
Genuine Holy Land sets are carved by hand in and around Bethlehem from local olive wood. Bethlehem Handicrafts carves its sets in Bethlehem and ships them directly, so each one is truly from the Holy Land.
How big are olive wood Nativity sets?
They range from small table top scenes a few inches high to large display sets with figures a foot or more tall. The right size depends on your space and how many figures you want.
Do Nativity sets make a good gift?
Yes. A Holy Land Nativity is a meaningful wedding, housewarming, Christmas or Three Kings Day gift, and it becomes a family tradition that returns every year.
0 comments