Royal craftwork from Naples
One area of our Museum’s collection of miniatures is dedicated to the Neapolitan folk art of nativity-scene making. The exhibition with its scenes of typical everyday Mediterranean life conveys a unique insight into the life of the citizens of 18th-century Naples.
The Neapolitan folk art of nativity-scene making originated in the depiction of the Holy Family at the end of the 15th century. The Bourbon King Charles III was responsible for the heyday of Mediterranean nativity-scene making. His passion for the art form was passed on to well-to-do citizens, monasteries and churches.
Our exhibits on the 3rd floor of the Museum were created by the Neapolitan nativity-scene artist Mario Capuano in many months of meticulous craftsmanship. He created a scene covering some 15 m2 whose buildings, figures and more than a hundred accessory items represent an authentic depiction of everyday life in 18th-century Naples. Nativity-scene making has been a passion of the Capuano family since 1840. Among their recent important works are nativity scenes for the pilgrimage church in San Giovanni Rotondo and for King Juan Carlos of Spain.
