Twins
Hans Huggler
Switzerland

Huggler is the name of one of the better-known woodcarver families in the Bernese region of Switzerland. Their figures have the measured elegance of well-to-do farmers. Postures are grave and reverential, all movement suspended in pious tribute to the Christ child. The subdued colors heighten the overall impression of devout this- worldliness.

There are two identical figures in this set: two shepherds, each carrying a sheep on his shoulders. These are the Twins, bearers of human challenge. Turned unto ourselves we see but ourselves. We are like twins, for wherever we look and whatever we do, we only see our own face and personal interest. Healing comes from the Child in the manger. He is the epitome of holy altruism. He frees us from our twin, meaning our other, darker self. Reflecting on the bitter experiences of human existence, this Germanic crèche tradition points beyond mere sociology and culture to the deeper recesses of the human psyche.