inspired by the Christmas story

I first saw these figures in a shop window nearly fifty years ago and fell in love with them. I still love their timeless simplicity. The Danes are so clever with wood and paint.

My father asked me what he should give my mother for Christmas, and, knowing she had a similar taste to mine, I suggested he bought her the Nativity figures I had been admiring - and, perhaps - coveting. They stood on the family mantlepiece for many years, until my mother decided to let me share the pleasure of them with our young family.

This is their first Christmas on our new mantelpiece. I hope it will be the first of many.