In Brussels, a unique Nativity scene by German artist Victoria-Maria Geyer has stirred both public outrage and theft at the city’s Christmas market. The scene, located in the heart of Brussels, has become a source of political debate and was the target of a theft involving the baby Jesus figure on November 29.
The Nativity, designed with faceless cloth depictions of Mary, Joseph, Jesus, and the Wise Men, contrasts with the detailed features of the animals in the scene. This creative choice has ignited a national discussion, amplified by online platforms. The baby Jesus figure was reportedly stolen from its place in the center of Brussels during the early morning hours.
After 25 years with the previous Nativity design, event organizers, Brussels Major Events, decided it was time for a change. The new design by Geyer, a practicing Catholic, was selected and approved by both the local Catholic Church and the City of Brussels. Geyer intended for the featureless figures to be universally relatable, allowing Catholics from diverse backgrounds to connect with the Biblical narrative. Despite these intentions, the design has been met with criticism.
Georges-Louis Bouchez, leader of the center-right party Reformist Movement (MR), voiced his disapproval online, claiming the faceless figures failed to embody the Christmas spirit and resembled “zombies one might encounter near train stations in Brussels.” Bouchez has since initiated a petition to reinstate a “traditional nativity scene.”
However, opinions within MR are divided. Deputy member Michel De Maegd criticized the design for lacking “sensitivity and caution” but condemned the use of the issue as a “political tool to incite resentment.”
Additionally, the cost of the new Nativity scene, reported to be €65,000 ($75,500) for a setup meant to last five years, has been a point of contention. De Maegd described the expenditure as “exorbitant” given the current strains on municipal budgets. In response, Brussels Mayor Phillippe Close addressed the situation, stating that the Nativity design would undergo review with ecclesiastical authorities before next year’s display. He encouraged moderation in public reactions, saying, “We all have the right to like or dislike the Nativity set.”
This incident is not the first time Brussels’ historic Nativity scene has been targeted. Though the baby Jesus has been swiftly replaced, no additional security measures have been implemented by the organizers.
