OUR COLLECTION — LATIN AMERICA — PARAGUAY 361. PALO SANTO NATIVITY
This Nativity was made by artisans from the village of Mistolar on the Pilcomayo River in Paraguay. The twelve pieces are hand-carved by Nivacle Indians using techniques handed down from generation to generation, originally taught to them by 16th century Catholic missionaries. The wood is fragrant Palo Santo (meaning “Holy Wood” in Spanish). Palo Santo (Bulnesia Sarmientoi) can be green to brown or beige and has a unique grain and pleasant smell. The tree belongs to the same family (Burseraceae) as frankincense and myrrh. The wise men measure 8.25 inches tall.