Danish Nativity

“This Nativity, designed by Per Henning Højholm, was made in a distinctively Danish, mid-century modern style. The set includes the Holy Family, a shepherd and shepherdess, two sheep, and three brightly painted wise men. The wooden shapes are simple, and the painted designs are geometric. The woods used are Danish beech and oak.

Højholm Design was founded by Per Henning Højholm in 1957. The first painted wooden figure he designed was a small angel he gave to family and friends as a Christmas gift. The angel’s painted decoration was inspired by old frescoes. Højholm was studying medicine at the time but decided to pursue his love of wooden crafts instead, moving his family to the town of Bogense on the island of Funen. The wood was turned in Bogense, and the painting of the figures was done by about 20 women working from their homes.

Højholm died in 1974, and today the company he founded is owned by his daughter, Ellen Kirstine Højholm. Ellen and her husband, Eric, now paint all of the figures, so that each one is unique.” (Ed and Kirsten Gyllenhaal, label text, “World Nativities 2020”)