Censer
Unknown Artist
second half 18th century
Medium
Copper gilt
Dimensions
H. 2 1/2 in. (6.4 cm.); H. (with chains) 9 1/4 in. (23.5 cm.)
Classification
Crèche
Culture
Italian, Naples
Department
European Sculpture and Decorative Arts
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Loretta Hines Howard, 1964
Accession Number
64.164.156
Art Historical Context
This exquisite copper gilt censer, by an unknown artist in Naples during the second half of 18th century, a charming accessory from the city's renowned tradition of crèches—elaborate nativity scenes known as *presepi*. Standing just 2½ inches tall (or 9¼ inches with delicate chains), it would have swung gently in a festive display, releasing fragrant incense to evoke the sacred atmosphere of the Nativity. Neapolitan crèches, popular among the nobility and clergy, blended religious devotion with lively depictions of everyday life, shepherds, and angels, transforming Christmas into a vibrant spe...