Shepherd Sleeping - Marolin Nativity Scene Germany

The timeless beauty of the Marloin nativity pieces is shown in this sleeping shepherd. This piece was originally designed in 1934 by Julius Weigelt and is still crafted today using the same traditions.

Marolin - An authentically traditional German nativity collection . Heirloom quality nativity scene figures from Germany. Sleeping Shepherd for your 12cm scale (4.75 inches) Marolin German nativity collection. Shepherd measures 5.25" high.

In 1900 Richard and Minna Mahr founded their company in Steinach Germany. The secret of their success was a self invented form of paper mache. Today, all production at Marolin is still made in the traditional way started by Richard and Minna Mahr. The 5th generation of their family continues to produce fine nativity scene items that are sought after in Germany and around the world.

Today, as over a hundred years ago, the Marolin figurines are made completely by hand and the special mixture of fine papier-mâché created by Richard Mar is still used. This carefully composed combination of kaolin, chalk, paper fibers, organic paste and clay can be poured into some molds in a thin liquid form or pressed into other molds in a more solid form. Figurines of about 4.75 inches or larger are made as hollow figures by pouring the mixture into molds. Smaller figurines and the extremities for the larger ones are made by pressing the mixture into corresponding molds. Because the extremities are quite fragile, a copper wire reinforcement is inserted into them at the time of production. After all of the parts of each figurine have been dried, trimmed and cleaned, they are very carefully fitted together. Larger areas of the figurines such as dresses and trousers are painted with airbrush pistols. Afterwards individual painters, all master craftsmen, give the figurines their unique character and vitality. Patina is delicately rubbed onto the surface to create even more plasticity and depth. And then at long last wonderful gold accents are added to finish off the exquisite figurines.

 See more of the Marolin Nativity collection, or visit our Unique Nativity collection for more amazing nativities from Around the World!