This is a miniature nativity set with hand-carved olive wood figures from Bethlehem and a small working brass bell hanging from the arched frame. A 3D olive wood palm tree stands on one side, the arch on the other holds the bell and the Holy Family carved at the base. Approximate size 10 x 7.8 x 3.5 cm (3.9 x 3.1 x 1.4 inches), weight about 88 grams. Sits freestanding on an oval base. Made by Christian artisan families in Bethlehem.
About this Miniature Nativity Set
This is a miniature nativity set with hand-carved olive wood figures from Bethlehem and a small working brass bell hanging from the arched frame.
3d carved palm tree on one side, arched frame on the other holding a small brass bell on a thin chain, holy family carved at the base under the arch, all mounted on an oval olive wood base. Olive wood carved as 3d figures on a shared base, palm and arch joined to the base, brass bell suspended from a small loop on the arch with a fine chain, holy family carved as a back relief.
The One I Always Mention
When customers come into the Bethlehem shop in person and ask me what to take home, this is the one I show them first. The little brass bell rings (gently), and that one small detail does more for the piece than another carved figure ever would. It's a piece you interact with, not just look at.
Product Specifications
| Material |
Genuine Holy Land olive wood |
| Origin |
Bethlehem, Holy Land |
| Approximate Size |
3.9" H x 3.1" W x 1.4" D (10 x 7.8 x 3.5 cm) |
| Approximate Weight |
88 g (3.1 oz) |
| Scene |
3d carved palm tree on one side, arched frame on the other holding a small brass bell on a thin chain, holy family carved at the base under the arch, all mounted on an oval olive wood base |
| Construction |
Olive wood carved as 3d figures on a shared base, palm and arch joined to the base, brass bell suspended from a small loop on the arch with a fine chain, holy family carved as a back relief |
| Finish |
Hand polished, natural olive wood, no stain |
| Made By |
Christian artisan families in Bethlehem |
| Display Style |
Freestanding tabletop, sits flat on the base |
| Packaging |
Gift-ready, padded for international shipping |
The Story of this Piece
Adding a metal element to an all-wood nativity is unusual. The carver suggested the brass bell because in many Eastern Christian traditions a bell is what announces the moment of the Incarnation in liturgy. It's a small theological detail hidden in a small piece of wood.
Who it's For
Christmas gift for a child old enough to handle the bell carefully, hospice or care home gift where the soft chime is a quiet comfort, parish secret-Santa, a thoughtful pocket-size travel piece for someone who's away from home over the holidays, or a small keepsake for an adult catechumen receiving their first sacraments.
Care Instructions
Olive wood needs almost no maintenance. If it looks dry after years of indoor display, rub a single drop of food grade olive oil into the surface with a soft cloth. Don't soak it, don't put it in a dishwasher, don't display it outdoors in direct rain. Indoor humidity changes are normal and fine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the brass bell actually ring?
Yes, it's a real working bell with a small clapper inside. The sound is soft and high-pitched, more of a gentle chime than a loud ring, appropriate for an indoor display piece.
Is the bell securely attached?
The bell hangs from a small chain attached to a loop on the arched frame. It's secure under normal display and handling. If a child pulls hard the chain can be reattached easily.
Will the brass tarnish over time?
Brass naturally develops a darker patina indoors over years. Most collectors prefer this aged look. If you want to keep it bright, a soft polishing cloth restores the shine.
How is the palm tree attached to the base?
Joined with a small wood dowel and natural adhesive at the foot of the trunk. It's structural, not decorative, the palm holds firm under normal handling.
Is this small enough to travel with?
Yes. At 88 grams and 10 cm tall it fits in a small zip pouch in a carry-on bag. Customers regularly take it on pilgrimages, retreats, and as a gift to deliver in person to family.
✓ Authentic olive wood craftsmanship from Bethlehem, handmade by
Elias Zuluf's workshop — supplying Christian gifts, crosses, and sacred carvings worldwide since 2007.