Lots 516-523: The traditional nativity scene, or presepio is at the centre of Italian Christmas celebrations. Churches, squares, shops and public spaces display not only the manger scene, but also feature figures of townspeople and countryfolk from Bethlehem and its surrounds. The golden age of creche figures was the 18th century when Neapolitan royalty adopted this tradition for their personal enjoyment. Varying in height, according to the position they were to take in perspective in the stage set, the figures are pliable and can be given poses at will, according to their facial expressions. The following eight lots encapsulate the Neapolitan presepio tradition and the Mediterranean harbour town's multicultural society. SALEROOM AMENDMENT – Please note the right ear to the horse is damaged. Also, the dimensions for this lot should read 44cm high, 63cm wide, 32cm deep A Neapolitan polychrome decorated terracotta and wood presepio group, late 18th century, comprising a white horse with glass eyes and silk saddle and blanket fringed with metallic thread, gold braided harness and silver stirrups, with two attendant figures, both with glass eyes and elaborately dressed with gilt embroidered silk and cotton clothing and wearing turbans, mounted on a later pine stand, the horse - 55cm high, 52cm wide; the tallest figure - 42cm high (3) Provenance: Christie's, 21 April 1982, lot 341.