Bloggin’ with Alleluia Shop

Since 1908, the House of Fontanini has created magnificent old-world sculptures treasured by collectors all over the world. Breathtaking in detail and workmanship, Fontanini Nativities are comprised of lifelike figures that present an extraordinary step back in time to Biblical Bethlehem.

In 1973, Roman, Inc. became the exclusive distributor for Fontanini Nativities. Already a world famous name in Italian craftsmanship for 65 years before the Nativities became wildly available in the United States, the much sought-after collection was prized for its lifelike sculpting, meticulous hand painting and attention to detail. The partnership with Roman has made Fontanini Nativities the most popular in America for many years.

The family patriarch and company founder Emanuele Fontanini, embarked on his career of figurine crafting in 1893 as a talented 13 year-old apprentice to an artist in Bagni di Lucca, an area of Tuscany known for its great arts and crafts. Fontanini expanded his knowledge and skills in art through travels to European cities. He returned to Bagni di Lucca to launch his company in 1908, using money earned from the sale of his wares throughout the continent. Although no longer artisits themselves, the fourth generation of the Fontanini Family continues the tradition of crafting the eloquent Nativities and figures.

Working with the finest painters and sculptors in Tuscany, Fontanini began crafting figures and decorations of heirloom quality in a single room shop. In time, the House of Fontanini gain recognition and acclaim for its work and Fontanini’s sons, Ugo, Mario and Aldo, joined him in the business. Later, Mario’s sons, Ugo, Mariano and Pier became the third generation to head up the rapidly growing enterprise. The family’s fourth generation is proudly bringing the House of Fontanini to both old and new collectors the world over.

One of the most popular features of the Fontanini collection is that whether you’re looking for a complete set or a single piece to add to an existing set, you’re sure to find just the right fit. Figures are available is several sizes, with the two most common sizes being the 5″ and 7.5″ figures. The Alleluia Shop currently has over 250 different Fontanini items listed in its online gift store. Why not take a look right now? – John

Capture all the magic and fairy tale charm that only Precious Moments and Disney together can create. Pint-sized princesses and warm weather wishes are yours for the dreaming in these brand new Precious Moments Disney introductions.

Simplified versions of Precious Moments damsels costumed as your favorite Disney princesses include Ariel, Aurora, Belle, Cinderella and Snow White. These demure darlings are portrayed in new poses recalling the sparkling individuality of each character.

Ariel: Oceans Of love For You. A girl just like Ariel inspires this aqua-dorable girl’s dream of a whole new world full of fish and sunken treasure, under the sea.

Aurora: Your Sweet Song Fills The Air. Lovely enough to charm the birds (or could they be her fairy godmothers?) from the trees, this pretty miss reflects Princess Aurora’s grace and wide-awake beauty.

Belle: We’re Always On The Same Page. An independent spirit and dreams of adventure in “the great wide somewhere” gives this book-loving miss more in common with Belle than just her country frock.

Cinderella: I’m Swept Away By You. Her tiresome old household chores adds an authentic Cinderella touch to this figure of a hard working lovely dreaming that her wishes will someday come true.

Snow White: Your Kiss Can Put A Smile On The Grumpiest Face. Even the “Magic Mirror on the wall” might have a hard time telling this loving lass apart from the real Snow White.

Each adorable porcelain bisque figurine is now available for the very affordable price of only $39.99 each. And for a limited time, when you order from the Alleluia Shop, you can receive FREE SHIPPING within the USA. So, take a closer look at your favorite princess today! Many other fun Precious Moments Disney pieces are in stock too.

Jim Shore has been dazzling gift-givers and collectors for many years with his unique quilted-look line of giftware items. Now brand new to the market, he has just released a charming line of fairies that are sure to be snatched up before Christmas. Enesco has produced only a limited number of these pieces for 2009.

Gathering inspiration for the collection from his southern-country upbringing, sculptor and painter Jim Shore blends intricate patterns, eye-catching country colors, and carved wood resin details to create truly unique works of art. His seven enchanted new fairies include the following: Harmony Fairy, Sea Fairy, Cooking Fairy, Feline Fairy, Sewing Fairy, Flower Fairy and Princess Fairy.

More about the Heartwood Creek artist, Jim Shore:

A native of South Carolina, Jim Shore utilizes his skills and art as a portraitist, sculptor, and folk artist to create his unique and creative collection for Enesco. His most popular collection, Heartwood Creek, combines tabletop, figurines, and home and garden décor to create a charming and innovative American folk art statement. Shore’s artistry and design for Heartwood Creek has earned accolades from the gift industry. In 2005, the National Association of Limited Edition Dealers (NALED) named Shore Artist of the Year – for the second consecutive year – and his seasonal offering by Enesco as Holiday Décor of the Year. His artwork for Heartwood Creek Nativity also took top honors as Collectible of the Year and Decorative Collectible of the Year. He’s truly a talented and much appreciated artist.

Click the link below to see the new fairies, as well as other gifts from the collection. Don’t wait long though, as they’re sure to quickly fly away. – John