Santons

Santons

Santons are traditionnally made of clay, in the South of France (Provence). The label "santons" may be used in other countries to name the Nativity characters.

The "santon de Provence" was primarily used for Nativity cribs, but it has now turned into a collection object... or souvenir for tourists. You can find many santon qualities and many different characters. Nowadays santons makers tend to imagine new situations and more modern characters. They also make them taller and bigger. Nevertheless, the real "Santon de Provence" is still dressed as people used to in the 19th century.

You can find small santons entirely made of clay, or bigger santons dressed with real clothes. I personnally collect only dressed santons, but I also have some nice examples of small santons.

Aubagne is the heart of the santon area.