This year’s traditional crib exhibition is all about the Baby Jesus. He is at the heart of the Christian Christmas story, which also makes him the main character in nativity scenes. The way he is depicted has changed over the centuries, shaped by different religious ideas, cultural traditions and shifting decorative art styles. Sometimes the Baby Jesus appears sumptuously dressed and richly adorned, and sometimes as a worshipped holy figure or vulnerable newborn. The nativity scenes and their figures reflect key themes of the Christmas story: humility and poverty, the need for protection and humanity, hope and optimism. As always, the exhibition will be accompanied by a varied supporting programme for the whole family.