Vtg Signed Portuguese FolkArt Nativity Clay Miguel Gomes & Celia Freitas As Is For Sale

• Artist: Miguel Gomes & Célia Freitas (Estremoz, Portugal)

• Type: Nativity Scene / Presépio / Altar Throne

• Material: Hand-molded Terracotta / Ceramic Clay

• Culture: Portuguese / Alentejo Folk Art (UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage style)

• Condition: Used / Defective (Please see detailed condition notes and photos)

Item Description:

Up for sale is a beautiful, authentic piece of Portuguese cultural heritage: a hand-molded ceramic altar nativity scene (presépio) created by the renowned artisan duo Miguel Gomes and Célia Freitas. Both artists are celebrated figures from the historic pottery region of Estremoz, Portugal, known for carrying on the traditional Bonecos de Estremoz (Dolls of Estremoz) craft—a clay-modeling art form recognized globally by UNESCO.

This piece features their signature hand-incised names on the unglazed terracotta base. Arranged on a traditional multi-step architectural "throne," the set features Joseph, Mary, Baby Jesus, a stylized cow, a donkey, and three whimsical regional birds perched on the decorative rooftop. It is beautifully painted in vibrant blocks of color with traditional gold-painted halos and accents.

Condition Report & Damage Disclosure (PLEASE READ):

This piece is being sold AS-IS due to visible structural damage. Please inspect the photos closely before purchasing.

• There is a significant chip/break on the front left corner of the base where a section of the painted scrolling trim has broken off.

• The cow and donkey animal figures in the front show minor wear/chipping on their right ears.

• There are minor, typical vintage paint flakes and shelf wear on the back and unglazed edges, consistent with age and the fragile nature of traditional Portuguese redware.

• The broken-off fragment of the base is not included.

Despite the damage, the core figures remain beautiful, expressive, and structurally secure on the steps, making this a wonderful entry-level display piece for collectors of international nativity scenes or European folk art.

Google valued this at $200-$380 before damage. It is significantly less with the small damage so I am offering it at $75. Sad to say but the damage happened in my possession so I’m just sick about that.