Santons are figures of traditional provençal personages in a variety of sizes. Santons are clay figurines that depict the colorful people, traditional trades, activities and costumes of Provence. Some classical examples are the shepherd with his flock, the hunter, dairy maid, mayor, nurse, farmers and various peasants and trade people. The name santon probably comes from the Provençal word "santoùn" for little saint. Santons are often arranged for Christmas manger scenes. In addition to the three wise men, Joseph, Mary and the baby Jesus the crèches often depict typical Provencal villages with the personages mentioned above.
The original Crèches in Provence date back to the 17th century with carved wooden figures, marionnettes, clockwork characters and even costumed children in living crèches. During the French Revolution the churches were closed and fullsize crèches forbidden. A craftsman in Marseilles decided to make the santons for the general population, at a price they could afford. They were an instant success, and an industry (and tradition) was born. Today santon fairs and exhibitions are a common regional event.
Santon making is today one of the cottage industry trades practiced by artisans in some of the smaller villages. You can find santons in village shops and ateliers, and often in the markets. We found a craftsman in his workshop on the way back down from les Baux. Click on his picture below to find out more.