The Holy Family A child is born In response to requests for a small-scale nativity, Susan created this intimate rendering, measuring 7.5" tall. This one-piece sculpture, painted with richly layered colors, is ideal for those with limited display space, or who wish to display a nativity year-round. The expressive gestures of Mary and Joseph reveal their humanity, and portray their overwhelming emotion of love and protection for their newborn child. Mary is turned in toward Joseph, sheltered by his right arm. Joseph?s staff and cloak form a protective shield around his new family. Joseph?s left hand, positioned above the head of baby Jesus, shadows the curve of Mary?s wrist. This is a historically symbolic gesture of blessing and protection. ?This is a story from the past? but the overwhelming emotions of holding a new baby, starting a new family, and wanting to protect them forevermore are present today in every culture and every age. My hope is that the gestures of Mary and Joseph will represent these powerful feelings of love and protection.? ?Susan Lordi The Holy Family collection is ideal for those looking for a smaller nativity option. The 7.5?h figure is complemented by a backdrop of pierced curved metal, suggestive of twinkling stars. Four animals give watch, warmth and protection. (Shelter bac kdrop and Sheltering Animals sold separately) DETAILS .7.5?h hand-painted resin figure .Figure of Joseph, standing in cream garment and rust-colored cloak carrying wood staff and Mary seated on gray rock with rust blanket, wearing light blue dress with blue cloak, holding infant Jesus in cream blanket .Packaging box includes enclosure card for gift-giving .Dust with soft cloth or soft brush. Avoid water or cleaning solvents OUR STORY Willow Tree sculptural art forms beautifully express love, closeness, healing, courage, hope? all the emotions of a life well lived. Artist Susan Lordi hand carves the original of each figure from her studio in Kansas City Missouri. Pieces are cast from her original carvings, and individually painted by hand. Expression is revealed through gestures only? a tilt of the head, placement of the hands, a turn of the body. The simplicity of form and absence of facial features signify Willow Tree. It is Susan?s hope that these pieces be meaningful to both giver and receiver. ARTIST Susan Lordi Susan Lordi's artistic process is rather intuitive; she "sketches" in clay as she conceives, sculpts and carves each piece, always with a focus on gesture that speaks to the universal. By stripping down the essence of emotion to pure form, she opens the interpretation of each piece to the giver and the receiver. This one-of-a-kind approach to product creation makes her pieces truly individual... her hand, and her unique perspective, is evident in each sculpture.