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‘Loahmmandel’ from the Steyr-Garsten, Enns, and Steyrtal region

‘Loahmmandel’ or ‘Loahmmandl’ are nativity scene figures made of clay. They are either modelled in the style of typical regional nativity scene figures or moulded from existing models and worked in a semi-relief manner, fired, and then painted. For many families, parishes, and associations, crafting and painting the Loahmmandel is an annual social highlight, during which regional and local customs are transmitted from generation to generation.

The tradition of creating nativity scenes in the Steyr-Garsten, Enns, and Steyrtal region has been passed on through the crafting of nativity figures made of natural clay. This production practice dates back to the end of the 18th and the beginning of the 19th century. Alongside the conventional figures (Mary and Joseph, ox and donkey, pedlar, fruit picker, chimney sweep, woman at a well, hermit, hunter, various shepherds, and the ‘Raurakl’ (hare with antlers)), there are models of houses, groups of houses, and urban structures encompassing towers, gates, and façades in this style. Originally, the figures were only produced in three different sizes, but they are now available in up to seven different sizes. At the beginning of the 19th century, the only colours used for painting were of a lighter shade, as they stemmed from natural products. This is why Loahmmandel nativity scene figures are still produced in mellower tones today. Together with families and parishes, various nativity scene associations, which are committed to the preservation, upkeep, and re-creation of Loahmmandel, also guarantee the safeguarding of the historical tradition of Loahmmandel.
The nativity scene community and regular dialogue between members are also key elements in creating the Loahmmandel. This is particularly evident in the practice of viewing nativity scenes.

Every year, two associations, the ‘Steyrer Krippenfreunde’ and the ‘Steyrer Goldhaubengruppe’, organise an exhibition displaying a special type of nativity scene from the Ennstal known as ‘Kastenkrippen’, featuring Loahmmandel as nativity scene figures. This exhibition, held in Steyr, is popular amongst nativity scene enthusiasts and tourists from near and far.
The Steyrer Krippenfreunde association regularly organises and runs nativity scene workshops to teach people how to make and decorate Loahmmandel.

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© Karl Hennerbichler

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Lower Austria Upper Austria 2023 Traditional craftsmanship