Master nativity scene builder Rudi Stagl from Wulkaprodersdorf passes on his knowledge in courses. Whether in the stable, on a high standard or on an island, each participant can decide for themselves where the Savior is born.
Unbelievable, but true: in eight weeks it will be Christmas again. Anyone wishing to admire their own home-made nativity scene under the Christmas tree this year on Christmas Eve can learn the high art of building a nativity scene from October 27. Then master stall builder Rudi Stagl and his colleague Walter Huf started a course in ten units in the rectory of Klingenbach. Both co-founded the “Crib workshop” association 20 years ago, continued their education at the crib making school in Linz and even passed the master craftsman exam.
women on the rise
“In the past, more men came to the course. Now it is almost exclusively women. But they are also excellent for drilling, sawing and gluing. All that matters is the will,” says Stagl. Mainly Burgenland, Alpine and Oriental cribs are built. The roofs of the Burgenland groynes are covered with reed or straw, the roofs of the Alpine groynes with shingles. But if someone has an unusual idea, it can also be implemented.
Raised stand instead of stable
For example, a young hunter built her cradle in the form of a high standard. Instead of ox and donkey, fox and rabbit protected the child Jesus. An elderly lady, who had a weakness for cities with high towers, placed the Holy Family in front of many round pillars.
“Whether it’s a simple cave, an ancient ruin, a palace, a castle or an island, there are no limits to your imagination,” says the retired mechanic, talking about his first crib, which was made of cardboard and that he tinkered with the tender age of twelve. His mother brought him the template for this when she went shopping: “I covered the roof with the yellow straws where I drank my cocoa at school”.
unforgettable impression
Rudi Stagl no longer accepts commissioned work as he used to. He prefers if everyone builds the crib themselves. Because this work is a beautiful meditative attunement to Christmas. But it is also a challenge, because everything must be ready by December 24 at the latest: “The handicraft leaves a lasting impression on all hobby craftsmen. Many still dream of the work they accomplished months after the course.”
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
