ADVENT CALENDAR 2025

December 5

NATIVITY FROM MADAGASCAR

Republic of Madagascar
Rosewood
Date unknown

Madagascar is the fourth-largest island globally, located off the southeastern coast of Africa. Formerly a French colony, it gained independence in 1960. Approximately half of the Malagasy population adhere to indigenous beliefs, while most of the remaining population follow Christianity and Islam. Christian beliefs are often joined with elements of traditional spirituality.

Madagascar has a rich tradition of woodcarving with regional variations within the island. In 2008, the “woodcrafting knowledge” of the Zafimaniry people received UNESCO recognition as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity site.

On loan from A.J. DiAntonio, Malvern, Pennsylvania

Glencairn Museum’s World Nativities exhibition runs from November 28, 2025, to January 25, 2026. Visit us at Follow the Star: A 2025 Advent Calendar.