Traditional Christmas crib animals

There are two traditional animals that cannot be ignored in a Christmas crib: the donkey and the ox. These animals are present in most nativity scenes and have strong symbolic meaning.

  • The donkey: a symbol of humility, simplicity and strength, the donkey is often depicted in the Christmas crib, as it participated in the birth of Jesus by carrying Mary on the journey to Bethlehem.
  • The ox: a symbol of peace, stability and prosperity, the ox is also present in the Christmas crib because it warmed Jesus and symbolizes God's presence in the world.

These two traditional animals are key elements of the Christmas crib, and are frequently depicted near the grotto or stable where the Holy Family is found.

Other Christmas crib animals

In addition to the traditional animals, there are other animals that can be included in your Christmas crib to add variety and richness to the scene. Here are a few examples of other animals you can include:

    • Sheep: a symbol of tenderness, gentleness and innocence, sheep are often depicted in the Christmas crib as a representation of the fragility of the newborn Jesus.
    • Birds: a symbol of freedom and peace, birds can be included in the Christmas crib to represent harmony and serenity.
    • Cats and dogs: although less common, cats and dogs can also be included in the Christmas crib to add a more familiar, domestic element.
  • These animals can be placed close to the grotto or stable where Mary, Joseph and Jesus are, or scattered around the scene to create a richer, more varied atmosphere.

How to arrange the animals in the crib

  • Once you've chosen the animals you'd like to include in your Christmas crib, it's important to know how to arrange them to create a harmonious, balanced scene. Here are a few tips for arranging animals in your Christmas crib:Animals can add an extra dimension to the nativity scene and create a more realistic, authentic atmosphere.
    • Place the traditional animals, the donkey and the ox, close to the grotto or stable where the Holy Family is to be found. These are the most important animals in a Christmas crib, and should be given pride of place.
    • The other animals can be arranged to frame the central scene and add depth. Sheep can be placed close to the grotto or stable, or on the path with the shepherd on his way to the nativity scene, while birds can be placed in the air, suspended to symbolize freedom.
    • Camels and dromedaries accompany the Magi as they arrive from the East to make their offerings to the newborn child.
    • If you've chosen to include cats or dogs in your Christmas crib, you can place them near the stable or accompanying the various figures in the crib.

Christmas crib animals as decorative accessories

Christmas crib animals not only add symbolic elements to the scene, but can also be used as decorative accessories to create a more festive atmosphere. Here are a few ideas for using Christmas crib animals as decorative props:

  • Use animal figurines to create Christmas centerpieces or window decorations.
  • Use other farm animals (cows, chickens, roosters, pigs, geese and other poultry) or wild animals (owls, magpies, hedgehogs, wolves, foxes etc.) to create a lively decor.

Animals can be combined with other traditional Christmas elements, such as fir garlands and Christmas lights, to create an authentic and elegant Christmas decoration.

  • By choosing the right animals and arranging them strategically, you can create a traditional, authentic Christmas crib that your whole family will love. Don't forget that the finest santons from Provence are available from our online boutique, Santons Fouque. With our wide choice of santons, you'll be able to complete your nativity scene with quality characters and animals, in keeping with Provencal tradition. Merry Christmas to all!