ADVENT CALENDAR 2025

December 8

NATIVITY FROM THE ORE MOUNTAINS

Kunstgewerbliche Schnitzereien Emil Helbig
Lengefeld, Germany
Linden wood
Date unknown

Founded in 1933 by Emil Helbig (1883–1976), Kunstgewerbliche Schnitzereien Emil Helbig (Decorative Woodcarvings Emil Helbig) is the oldest continuously operating woodcarving workshop in Germany’s Ore Mountains (Erzgebirge). Each figure is hand-carved from local linden wood and painted with traditional water- or oil-based paints. Now in its third generation, the workshop is led by Helbig’s granddaughter, Bettina Bergmann, who continues the family’s legacy of craftsmanship.

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

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.