Christmas Group (Small) - Ceramic Nativity Scene, Standard Set by Nicolaas Maathuis

The Small Christmas Group by Nicolaas Maathuis is a handmade ceramic nativity scene that combines traditional Christmas imagery with a simple, tactile treatment of materials. The 10 solid ceramic figures are hand-formed, with some finished in blue engobe. They are left unglazed, allowing the natural texture of the ceramic to remain visible.

The scene is presented in a wooden stable made from two separate panels, joined with wooden pins so that it can be assembled and dismantled when needed. Its compact scale makes it suitable for display on a shelf, mantelpiece, or table, while the removable construction allows the set to be stored neatly after the festive season.

Created in the Netherlands in 2024, the Small Christmas Group is signed and numbered in a limited edition of 150. It is supplied with documentation in a letterbox-sized box.

Nicolaas Maathuis is a Dutch visual artist and designer. Born on June 23 in Deventer, the Netherlands, he followed a diverse educational and professional path, studying at the conservatory (ArtEZ), the Rietveld Academy, and the University of Amsterdam. His interests have ranged from music and pedagogy to visual art and law before he established himself as a visual artist and designer.

Maathuis works across painting, drawing, ceramics, furniture and applied art, often combining artistic ideas with functional objects. His work is characterised by simplified forms, a strong use of colour, and hand-drawn and handmade elements, with an interest in bringing art into everyday surroundings.

Maathuis lives and works in Buren, the Netherlands.