A Matter of Survival
Zafimaniry Artisans
This nativity set has been carved by Malagasy artisans belonging to the tribe of the Zafimaniry, and living in Ambositra on the island of Madagascar. The wood used comes from a non-hardwood tree called Vandriaka. Zafimaniry people are known for the decorative carvings of doors and windows of their homes. Begun as a conservation measure by Catholic missionaries in the 1960s, the Zafimaniry were instructed in the craft of figure carving as a means of saving the lushly forested areas of their habitat, while assisting the people to find sources of income. These smooth, shining, and beautifully carved figures are a tribute not only to the artistic abilities of the Zafimaniry, but also to their will of economic and cultural survival. So much in life is a matter of survival! The message of Christmas is no exception
Reprinted with permission: University of Dayton-Marian Library Collection. All rights reserved.