Bread Dough Nativity from Equador

Q. Brian wrote to explain that his ten year old bread dough figures from Equador were beginning to look a little brittle. He asked "How can I make them last longer?"

A. Fr. Tim Goldrick, who wears many hats including those of conservationist and historian, explained that the bread dough figures began as votive offerings for the Day of the Dead (All Souls Day, November 2) when images of ancestors are put out for the deceased along with favorite foods. As a consequence, the images were thought of as temporary. When the Peace Corps came to the Equator in the middle of the 20th century, they introduced polyurethane. And thus was born the opportunity to create figures that could be used at least through Christmas and Epiphany and more emphasis was placed on Nativities. SO...another coat of polyurethane should help.

To store the figures, wrap individual pieces in tissue and then place them in a tin such as the Danish butter cookie tins. Use extra tissue on top, bottom and in between to prevent slippage. Wrapping more than one piece together creates an unpacking hazard. For super safety, seal the tin. The same techniques can be used for straw figures.

DO NOT use plastic wrapping or bags as moisture is then trapped in.