Santons: Provence’s Tiny Treasures

For our December blog, our resident contributor in southwest France, Beth, takes us to the heart of a much‑loved festive tradition with her new article about “Les Santons de Provence.”

If you’ve strolled through a Provençal Christmas market and wondered about those clay figures in nativity scenes, this one’s for you. Santons are a Provençal Christmas tradition that brings the spirit, people, and landscapes of southern France to life on your table. Beth’s article is an excellent introduction to this enchanting world and might inspire your French Christmas.

“You know the old saying, ‘The best things come in small packages’?

At Christmas in Provence, it couldn’t be truer. Here, the season belongs to tiny clay figurines called santons, miniature marvels that bring villages, nativity scenes, and centuries of tradition to life.

What Exactly Is a Santon?

A santon is a hand‑crafted figurine, created from a blend of clay and Provençal imagination. The word comes from the Provençal santoun (“little saint”), but don’t be fooled: these figures aren’t just saints. They’re bakers, shepherds, fishermen, children at play – snapshots of everyday life, captured in miniature. Quirky, charming, and often beautiful, santons are the soul of Christmas in France. 

A Historical Perspective

Legend traces the idea back to Italy, where, in the 13th century, Francis of Assisi, inspired by nativity plays in Naples, fashioned simple figures from flour, water, and salt. Over time, Italian artisans elevated the craft with gilded wood, Venetian glass, and porcelain – luxury items for the wealthy.

France gave the tradition a more democratic twist. In the 17th century, santons became a Provençal craft, and by the late 18th century, Jean‑Louis Lagnel of Marseille was moulding unfired clay figures that ordinary families could afford. Later, in the 20th century, Thérèse Neveu of Aubagne introduced firing techniques, making santons sturdier and ushering in the modern era of the santonnière – creator of santons.

How Are Santons Made?

Forming a santon is no small feat. The process involves six steps: modelling, mould making, casting, trimming, firing, and decorating. Sizes range from impossibly tiny (1–3 cm) to traditional (10 cm) and large (20 cm). The bigger ones are often dressed in fabric costumes, giving artisans playful scope for creativity. Each carries the mark of its maker, reflecting its maker’s signature style and tradition.

Quirks and Characters

Yes, santons appear in nativity scenes, but their magic lies in the everyday. Alongside Mary, Joseph, and the shepherds, you’ll find innkeepers, bar‑tenders, fishermen, children, even literary figures like Marius and César. There’s also the beloved simpleton, a figure said to bring good luck. Together, they form a whimsical blend of sacred and secular. The result is bustling Provençal villages in miniature, using natural substances for structures such as moss, stone and wood.

Where to See and Buy Santons

Santons are so beloved that entire fairs are dedicated to them. The oldest and most famous is Marseille’s Foire aux Santons, founded in 1803. Held at the Old Port from November to January, it’s a festive mix of artisan stalls, dancing, gastronomy, and, of course, santons.

And for those who can’t make it to Marseille, Aubagne, the ‘capital of santons, is a great alternative. Its year‑round displays feature over 3,000 figurines across 19 village scenes – from cafés to pétanque games and goats grazing in the hills. It’s Provence in miniature, a joyful celebration of local life.

A Fine Provençal Tradition

At Christmas, santons shine brightest. These tiny treasures, crafted by generations of artisans, embody Provençal heritage. Blending the Holy Family with villagers, mythical characters, and animals, they tell a story that is both timeless and local. As long as people cherish them, santons will continue to grace Provence. These are small packages with a huge heart.”

Thank you so much, Beth, for sharing these lovely insights from the south of France! We hope you have a fabulous Noël. If you’re new to our blog and haven’t yet met Beth and her adorable four-legged friends, now is a great time to explore her popular Fatdogs series, especially with a new book coming out very soon.