Your Guide to Choosing the Perfect Blue and White Porcelain Nativity Set

Many of us look forward to decorating our homes for the holidays. For those wanting to add an elegant and meaningful touch, a blue and white porcelain nativity set is a wonderful option. These classic sets featuring the nativity scene add old-world charm and highlight the true meaning of the season.

But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the right nativity set for your home?

Aesthetic Considerations

The aesthetic style and composition of your nativity set will impact how it looks among your other decor. Keep these factors in mind when choosing a set that aligns with your goals.

Style

Nativity sets come in traditional and contemporary styles. Traditional designs showcase biblical figures in historically accurate costume while contemporary sets may feature more modern interpretations. Consider whether you want a classic, vintage look or something more unusual.

You'll also find realistic designs with more detail alongside abstract figures with minimal features. Detailed faces and intricate clothing create a lifelike quality. A simpler abstract style can create an artistic, whimsical look.

Composition

Standard nativity sets include Mary, Joseph, baby Jesus, angels, shepherds, Wise Men, and animals like sheep, cows, camels, and donkeys. Larger sets expand the scope with extra figures.

Consider how many pieces you want. Sets with just the core characters make elegant holiday accents. Larger collections allow you to build an entire village scene.

Examine which characters are included to ensure your set has the key figurines that matter most to you.

Color

From bright cobalt to muted grayish blues, the vibrancy of the painted color varies. A deep blue pops against the white while a softer tone creates a more weathered antique look.

Hand-painted designs have beautiful depth while transfer-printed patterns have consistent tones. Choose your preferred style.

Size

Nativity sets range from miniatures just a few inches tall to large-scale sets over a foot tall. Make sure to note both the full dimensions and the individual piece sizes to get a sense of scale.

Consider where and how you intend to display it. Small sets work nicely on tabletops while large collections can create grand scenes.

Functional Considerations

Beyond just appearance, there are practical factors that impact durability and usability.

Material

Most sets are porcelain but sometimes terra cotta or resin are used. Porcelain offers an elegant, timeless look combined with sturdiness if handled with care.

Study material quality - thicker, high-grade porcelain withstands impact better than thinner pieces.

Craftsmanship

Study the level of sculpting detail in the figures as well as the artistry of the painted designs. Finely molded features and intricately brushed patterns demonstrate quality craftsmanship.

Precision matters too - uneven painting or sloppy application of color indicates lower attention to detail.

Set Construction

Figures are either individual pieces or connected into unified scenes. Individual pieces allow you to reconfigure your set each year in new ways. Attached pieces ensure proper stability but reduce positioning flexibility.

Check that bases are flat and balanced so figures stand upright without tipping. Wobbling pieces can easily break.

Storage/Display

These delicate sets require special care when storing to prevent damage. Look for sets packaged in protective boxes or padding you can reuse for off-season storage.

For displaying, avoid high-traffic spots where they may get accidentally jostled and consider protective display cases.

Shopping Considerations

Where and how you purchase your nativity set also requires planning. Keep these tips in mind while shopping.

Budget

Mass-produced factory sets offer affordability but handmade artisan sets have premium pricing. Smaller sets start around $50 while large, high-end collections run $400 and up. Set your budget accordingly.

Retailers

Shopping online through Amazon, Etsy, and other specialty sites allows easy price comparisons. Local Christmas stores and antique shops offer the benefit of seeing pieces in person.

For custom orders, research artists to find one that matches your preferences. Or for family heirlooms, seek reputable auction houses.

Availability

If ordering a custom set, factor in production timeline which can take weeks or months. Limited edition and antique sets may also have restricted availability.

Order early for the best selection. Ask about order deadlines and expected delivery dates.

Curating Your Nativity Scene

Once you've selected your perfect blue and white porcelain nativity set, it's time for the fun part - curating how to display it! Here are some tips:

• Spotlight your set with targeted lighting for dramatic effect.
• Incorporate Christmas greenery, pinecones, and red berries as accents around the scene.
• Use fabric like burlap or a tablecloth for a barn backdrop.
• Add a wood platform riser to create the effect of a hillside.
• Arrange figures thoughtfully to reflect natural poses and interactions.

However you choose to incorporate your nativity set into your distinctive holiday style, it will surely become a beloved centerpiece to enjoy for years to come.

A blue and white nativity set is a great way to remember the reason for the season. As you shop, keep in mind the aesthetic and functional factors that matter most to you. Take care to select a high-quality set that reflects your decorative vision. Finally, craft a thoughtful display that allows your set to shine. The effort will reward you with holiday charm and memories for many Christmas seasons to come.