Art History Lecture on The Neapolitan Creche: Sculpture Between Art and Folklore. Presented by Italian Arts Council - Sunday, December 18, 2011

The Neapolitan Nativity, or Presepe Napoletano, is one of the longest lasting and most beloved of Christmas traditions. Through out the centuries, Neapolitan religious institutions and nobility alike engaged in commissioning and collecting sumptuous nativity scenes, which were realized by the best craftsmen, jewelers and silversmiths. At the height of its popularity, in the 18th century, figurines realized by the best craftsmen could cost up to a courtier's one month salary.

In this lecture, Dr. Liliana Leopardi, associate professor of Art History at Chapman University, will take us through the history of this sumptuous tradition highlighting its religious and social symbolism, as well as its artistic values.

When: 1:30 PM: Registration/Reception with Italian specialty foods 2:00 PM: Lecture in the state of the art Norma Kershaw Auditorium.

Where: Bowers Museum, 2002 N. Main Street, Santa Ana (corner Main and 20th)

Fee: $10 per person, Note: Parking is $6 on north and south lots. Free parking in lot on Main Street and Buffalo with easy access to Auditorium. Free parking on 20th and Main Street