The Christmas Story

Her name is Mary. His name is Joseph. The baby, Jesus.

Brand: Willow Tree® by DEMDACO
Part Number: 26173

Experience the heart of the Nativity with The Christmas Story, the largest and most breathtaking Nativity sculpture ever created by celebrated artist Susan Lordi. This magnificent two-piece centerpiece captures the profound love, humility, and reverence surrounding the birth of Jesus Christ through graceful forms, expressive gestures, and timeless symbolism. Designed to become a treasured family heirloom, The Christmas Story beautifully invites families to reflect upon the miracle of Christmas year after year.

Standing nearly 15 inches tall, Mary tenderly cradles the infant Jesus while Joseph stands beside them, his protective stance reflecting unwavering devotion to his young family. Every sculpted detail tells the sacred story without words. Mary's gentle embrace conveys unconditional love, while Joseph's staff, flowing cloak, and outstretched arm create a symbolic shelter over Mary and the Christ Child. His raised hand above the infant is an ancient gesture of blessing and divine protection, quietly expressing both fatherly care and faithful obedience.

Richly hand-painted with warm, layered tones and sculpted with Susan Lordi's signature flowing lines, the figures possess an extraordinary sense of movement and emotion. Their elegant simplicity allows viewers to focus not only on the Biblical account but also on the universal feelings of welcoming a newborn child—love, hope, protection, sacrifice, and joy.

Susan Lordi explains the inspiration behind this remarkable work:

"The Christmas Story is a story from the past… but the overwhelming emotions of holding a new baby, starting a new family, and wanting to protect them forevermore are present today in every culture and every age. My hope is that the gestures of Mary and Joseph will represent these powerful feelings of love and protection."

The Christmas Story serves as the centerpiece of Susan Lordi's larger-scale Nativity collection. It is designed to beautifully coordinate with the Gentle Animals of the Stable, the impressive 24-inch Sanctuary Backdrop, wooden display base, and pierced metal Tree Silhouettes, allowing collectors to build an extraordinary Nativity display that becomes a cherished Christmas tradition for generations.

Each Willow Tree® sculpture begins as an original hand-carved design by Susan Lordi in her Kansas City studio before being cast in resin and individually hand-painted, preserving every subtle gesture and sculptural detail that has made Willow Tree® beloved around the world.

Whether displayed during Advent, throughout the Christmas season, or as a year-round expression of faith, The Christmas Story is a powerful reminder of God's greatest gift and the enduring message of hope, love, and peace.

A Meaningful Gift For

• Christmas celebrations
• Family Nativity collections
• Wedding gifts
• Religious milestones
• Housewarming gifts
• Christmas collectors
• Church displays
• Family heirlooms
• New families
• Holiday traditions
• Christian homes
• Willow Tree® Nativity collectors

Product Features

• Authentic Willow Tree® by DEMDACO designed by Susan Lordi
• The largest-scale Nativity created by Susan Lordi
• Two-piece set includes Mary holding Baby Jesus and Joseph
• Richly hand-painted with layered natural finishes
• Tallest figure measures approximately 14.5 inches
• Crafted from hand-painted resin
• Beautifully packaged in a Willow Tree® gift box
• Coordinates with the Sanctuary Backdrop, Gentle Animals of the Stable, wood base, and Tree Silhouettes (sold separately)
• Easy care—dust gently with a soft cloth or soft brush; avoid water and cleaning solvents

Whether beginning a treasured Nativity tradition, expanding an existing Willow Tree® Christmas collection, or giving an unforgettable wedding or Christmas gift, The Christmas Story is an heirloom-quality centerpiece that celebrates the birth of Christ with extraordinary beauty and heartfelt simplicity. It is a timeless work of art that invites reflection, inspires faith, and brings the miracle of Bethlehem into your home each holiday season.

Shop Willow Tree® and Buy Willow Tree® with confidence from Willow Creek Lane, proudly serving as an Authorized Willow Tree® Dealer for over 20 years. Discover authentic Willow Tree® Nativity collections, inspirational Christmas décor, faith-filled gifts, and heirloom-quality sculptures that celebrate the beauty of the Christmas story for generations to come.