Reimagining the birth of Jesus by means of a nativity scene has been a well-loved tradition for centuries. This winter, nearly a hundred nativity scenes and nativity groups from the Jo and Maria Smits Collection will be brought together at the Kunsthal. The exhibition In the Midst of Winter’s Night presents unique pieces from their extensive collection, varying from classical examples executed in wood and porcelain to innovative designs in 3D-printed plastic, and from Playmobil toys to Swarovski crystal. The exhibition highlights how the timeless nativity scene is constantly being reinterpreted and redesigned.
The nativity scenes and groups — with Jesus surrounded by Mary and Joseph, and often also by shepherds, the three wise man, and various animals — were sourced around the world. At the Kunsthal you will, for instance, find a Czech nativity group with figurines made from maize leaves, or a Peruvian group with brightly painted shoes. A Thai nativity group stands out for its figurines dressed in silky, colourful robes reminiscent of traditional Thai costumes. The collection also encompasses a remarkable variety in sizes — with the smallest scene measuring only four millimetres — and materials, including a porcelain nativity group in origami style, a delftware scene with camels, a playful arrangement of rubber ducks, and even a group made entirely from straw.
Well-loved tradition
The tradition of the nativity scene originated in 1223, when Francis of Assisi first staged a real-life nativity scene in the Italian town of Greccio. Through this lifelike re-enactment he wanted to make the story of the birth of Christ more accessible to people who were unable to read. Through the ages, this tradition evolved from large re-enactments in churches and squares to small nativity scenes in private homes that enabled families to experience the story of Christmas in their own way.
The collection
For many years, Jo and Maria Smits were passionate collectors of nativity scenes, and members of the Dutch national nativity scene society Vrienden van de Kerstgroep Nederland. Before Jo Smits died in February 2024, the two of them purchased numerous pieces at jumble sales and through platforms like Marktplaats and eBay. From people in their extensive network of friends and acquaintances, they also received many nativity scenes as gifts. And during their holidays abroad they purchased many unique nativity scenes from all over the world too. Over a period of thirty years, what started as a modest hobby, evolved into a collection with more than 1,300 nativity scenes.
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