MMA Christmas Tree and Neapolitan Baroque Crèche

Two years ago photographer Robert Alan Espino graciously lent his time and talent to About.com Art History readers around the globe. Robert spent one morning at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, shooting the annual Christmas Tree and Neapolitan Baroque Crèche display in the Museum's Medieval Sculpture Hall. This being the MMA, both tree and crèche are spectacularly adorned with museum-quality pieces, and Robert, with his artist's eye, captured some sumptuous shots with the feel of Baroque paintings. You can take a virtual tour in this image gallery.

Now, if you are one of the millions of people lucky enough to have visited this beloved annual event in person, you already know there's no substitute for the real deal. Get yourself to the Museum if you can--and please do remember that admission is free for children under the age of 12 accompanied by adults. This holiday season the Christmas Tree and Neapolitan Baroque Crèche are on display from November 25, 2008 through January 6, 2009. Lighting ceremonies begin December 1, on the following schedule:

• Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays at 4:30 p.m.
• Fridays and Saturdays at 4:30, 5:30, and 6:30 p.m.
• Special holiday Monday, December 29, at 4:30 p.m.

I'd like to add my heartfelt thanks to Robert for his lovely pictures, to Naomi Takafuchi, Senior Press Officer at The Museum, who arranged the photo op during "off hours," and to Mr. Stan Parchin, who expedited introductions and helped facilitate our having this visual treat to share. You have my gratitude.

Image Credit:

Female Angel with Censer
© 2006 Robert Alan Espino