Making representations of the Nativity is a universally popular art form which has flourished in Europe since the sixteenth century. In every language, it is known for its focal point, the crib of the Infant Jesus creche in France, Krippe in Germany, presepio in Italy, Belem in Portugal, presebre in Spain, and nacimiento in Latin America. Cribs have been created in different styles and methods of construction. The use of humble materials paper, cork, wood, straw and precious ones silver, coral, pearl indicates that all creation has been touched by God's coming. Interest in the crib continues on different levels and in different ways.
Collectors vie to acquire centuries-old masterpieces from art dealers.
Churches and families add to and repair crib sets which have been passed down from generation to generation. Nativity scenes from Africa, Asia, and Latin America take their place alongside those from Europe. Contemporary creations portray Joseph and Mary as a homeless family huddled together on a city grate which provides warmth. In late summer of 1994, an earnest effort was begun at the Marian Library to collect various cultural expressions of the nativity scene. Noticeably missing to date are a few cultural expressions of the nativity from Eastern Europe, Spain, Portugal, Japan, China, Holland, Belgium.