Contemporary and ultra-modern, these minimalist nativity sets simply focus on that holy night when Jesus was born.
I’ll admit, the first time I saw an ultra-modern abstract nativity, I was like “Whaaaaat? Blasphemy!” But I’ll be honest, these minimalist nativity sets have really grown on me in a way that I did not anticipate at all.
I love collecting nativity sets, and I’ve already written about my favorite neutral and modern nativity sets, and also how to paint your own nativity set with the kids. Nativity sets help my family focus on why we really celebrate Christmas, to reflect on that special sacred night when the Savior of the world was born.
When it comes to these abstract and contemporary nativity sets, I think its pretty incredible that Jesus, Mary and Joseph can be portrayed in such a nontraditional way. I mean, cut pieces of glass? Jenga blocks with labels? And yet, its still obviously representative of that special night.
Perhaps these ultra-modern and minimalist nativities capture the essence and true spirit of Christmas best, by getting rid of all the excess, all the embellishments, all the distracting elements. The focus is on the simple sacredness of that night.
Here are a few of my favorites, with links to shop for your convenience.
Minimalist and Ultra-Modern Nativity Sets
These ultra-modern nativity sets are minimal and abstract. Trey are true works of art that focus on that sacred night, without all the distracting embellishments.
It doesn't get more modern or minimalist than this abstract nativity set with blocks representing Jesus, Mary, Joseph, and presumably a donkey and lamb.
This stunning abstract nativity set is hand made and completely unique. The pin-like accents around the star and the manger feel very retro.
I laughed when I first saw this type of nativity set of plain blocks with labels. It is definitely an ultra-ultra-modern representation!
This premium nativity set is gorgeous with its sleek lines and modern simplicity. There are additional pieces available if you want to include the shephard, angel and wise men. Adding to the collection every year would be a beautiful and meaningful gift.
Truly a work of art by SzkloGlass, this minimal glass nativity set is ultra-modern and contemporary.
I love this ultra modern, minimalist take on the full nativity set. Mary, Joseph, Jesus, the three wisemen, two shephards (or an angel and a shephard?) and three animals (I'll guess a camel, donkey and sheep). The wood is lovely, and Jesus is the beautiful focal point.
This stunning glass nativity set is incredible. I can imagine it as the centerpiece of a mantel, or top of a piano. Truly a work of art.
This gorgeous and modern 13 piece miniature set comes with a beautiful keepsake storage box. I love the sleek lines and how the eye is naturally drawn to Jesus at the center.
Look closely at this gorgeous clear acrylic nativity set. Talk about modern and ultra contemporary!
This is another beautiful peg doll style nativity set, that includes a cute little stable and animals.
Absolutely unique and modern, this nativity set is handcrafted in Kenya out of soapstone. It would make a lovely addition to any nativity collection.
Beautiful metal silhouettes of Mary, Joseph and Jesus with halos. This simple set would be lovely in front of a candle or centered above a fireplace.
My favorite part of this set is the woven manger for baby Jesus. Modern and simple!
This origami-style porcelain nativity set is bold and modern. I love the movement that you can feel from the wisemen as they lean in towards baby Jesus.
I love this simple sculpture of the nativity scene. It is definitely abstract and modern, but has a warmth to it as well.
I love color, and this modern wood nativity set is both minimalist and bright! I love the rounded shapes and simple lines.
The color blocking on this wooden nativity set is gorgeous and completely unique.
This simple nativity sculpture is back lit with a small LED light to shine the focus on baby Jesus,
I love the bold dark silhouettes of this lovely nativity set.
Pewter is a lovely medium for holiday decorations. This mini set comes with a velvet storage pouch as well.
This simple little set includes a stable, Mary, Joseph, Jesus and two animals.
I love the simplicity of this white miniature set that includes 11 pieces.
The tiny wooden bowl for baby Jesus is my favorite part of this simple peg-style stone nativity set.
This completely neutral and simple nativity set is perfect for any decor style.
Beautiful craftsmanship on this stunning minimalist nativity set. I love the grain and stain of the wood. It is truly simple and minimalist.
These pieces fold to stand upright, making a beautiful silhouette of the nativity scene. This set is on the traditional side of modern and would look lovely in any home.
It took me a minute to see each of the 6 figures in this ultra-modern and abstract nativity scene.
This beautiful nativity scene features a very unique round stable with opening. Simple and stunning.
I love the shapes and curves in this beautiful and abstract 15 piece nativity scene.
Another gorgeous large wooden nativity set with an asymmetrical stable and star.
People are so talented. I can’t wait to add some of these to my family’s collection. Merry Christmas, friends!