A Special Visit from Italy: Meet Emanuele Fontanini At Kris Kringl!

Join us at Kris Kringl for a very special afternoon with Emanuele Fontanini, visiting from Italy for an exclusive signing event on Sunday, Dec. 6 at 3pm! This is a wonderful opportunity to meet a member of the family behind one of the world’s most beloved Italian nativity collections and discover the history, artistry, and tradition behind these treasured pieces.

A Family Legacy Born in Italy

The story of Fontanini began in 1908 in the small Italian village of Bagni di Lucca, nestled in the beautiful Tuscan countryside. At just 13 years old, founder Emanuele Fontanini began an apprenticeship with a local artist, developing the artistic skills that would shape his family’s legacy.

After traveling throughout Europe to further his knowledge of art and craftsmanship, Emanuele returned home and established the House of Fontanini. What began in a humble, one-room shop grew into an internationally recognized family tradition.

The earliest Fontanini figures were crafted from plaster and later papier-mâché, featuring movable arms and fabric costumes. Inspired by Italy’s cherished tradition of the Christmas crèche, these figures became the foundation of what is now the celebrated Fontanini Heirloom Nativity Collection.

Over the generations, the family continued to innovate. Emanuele’s son Mario pioneered a high-density polymer that allowed artisans to create the intricate details and delicate sculpting that make Fontanini figures so distinctive today.

Now in its fourth generation, the Fontanini family continues to preserve and share its Italian heritage, bringing the beauty and meaning of the Nativity story into homes, churches, and collections around the world.

Celebrate the Tradition With Us!

Whether you’re a longtime Fontanini collector or discovering this beautiful collection for the first time, we’d love for you to join us!

Meet Emanuele Fontanini, hear more about his family’s remarkable history, learn about the artistry behind the collection, and bring your Fontanini treasures for a special signing.

Sunday, December 6
3–5 p.m.
Kris Kringl | 907 Front Street, Leavenworth, WA

We look forward to welcoming Emanuele and celebrating this wonderful Italian family tradition with our Leavenworth community!

Kris Kringl — Where It’s Christmas All Year Long.