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John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA
John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA
Nativity Scene
John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA
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Nativity Scene

Artifact IDMO 63.5504
Object Type Creche
Date ca. 1963
Gifter
Place MadeJordan, Asia
Medium Mother of pearl, wood
DimensionsOverall: 8 1/2 x 9 3/4 x 1 3/4 in. (21.6 x 24.8 x 4.4 cm)
Physical DescriptionOval shadow box with a two dimensional nativity scene. Figures are made of wood overlaid with mother of pearl and set into a niche. A kneeling Mary holds Jesus, behind her are two shepherds at the right, a figure of a woman with a basket on her head stands in the background on the left. The figures are flanked by two columns. The outer edges of niche are decorated by an ornate floral motif. The word "Bethlehem" is etched beneath the central figures. Easel back inscribed in ink "PRESENTED FROM HIS MAJESTY KING HUSSEIN OF JORDAN/ TO/ MR JOHN F. KENNEDY JR. ON THE OCCASION OF HIS BIRTHDAY."
Historical NoteThis carved nativity scene was given to John Kennedy Jr. in 1963 as a birthday gift by King Hussein bin Talal of Jordan. His sister Caroline was presented with a similar piece.
Additional Details
Custodial History NoteItem was a gift to President and Mrs. Kennedy from King Hussein bin Talal, King of Jordan. It was donated to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library by the Estate of President John F. Kennedy in 1965.
Credit LineJohn F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA; Gift of the Estate of President John F. Kennedy
National Archives Catalog CollectionJohn F. Kennedy Library Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 1676934)
National Archives Catalog SeriesGifts from Heads of State (National Archives Identifier 1677008)
Use Restriction StatusUnrestrictedUse Restriction NoteReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.
In Collection(s)
Not on view
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